Linn County Board of Supervisors Approves Zoning Code Ordinance Related to Nuclear Energy

The Linn County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved an ordinance establishing zoning regulations for nuclear energy generation and nuclear waste storage facilities in Linn County following the third and final reading of the ordinance. The updated ordinance is effective upon publication in the Gazette, which is expected to happen within the next week.

The ordinance outlines application requirements, review procedures, and host community agreement requirements. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) sets and enforces nationwide standards for designing, constructing, and operating nuclear facilities safely. Local governments, however, retain authority over land-use issues, such as where a facility may be sited, how it fits into surrounding neighborhoods, and what community benefits or impact-mitigation measures are required. The proposed Linn County zoning code focuses on these local considerations while leaving radiological safety to the NRC. The Board of Supervisors has the final decision on zoning regulations for nuclear energy generation and nuclear waste storage facilities in unincorporated Linn County.

Linn County values resident and stakeholder engagement. So, in addition to public comment opportunities, residents were invited to read a draft of the proposed ordinance amendments on the Linn County website and submit their feedback via email. The feedback was presented alongside the proposed changes to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Board of Supervisors.

"With the growing demand for energy, the need for a comprehensive and well-thought-out nuclear ordinance that protects taxpayers and keeps public safety at the forefront is of the utmost importance. I believe we've accomplished that with this ordinance," said Linn County Supervisor Chair Brandy Z. Meisheid. "While the start-up of Duane Arnold remains under the authority of the NRC, this ordinance ensures Linn County has a voice through local regulations. By incorporating a host community agreement, we are putting public safety first and making certain that any financial impact to the county falls on the nuclear company, not the taxpayers."

A copy of the zoning code ordinance related to nuclear energy is available on the Linn County website.

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