County resident Sara Shivers presented a proposal for consideration to the Greenwood County Commissioners on Monday, Nov. 3, that could bring 1,600 construction jobs over a seven-year construction phase and 250 long-term operational jobs to the county.
TerraPower, in partnership with Evergy and the Kansas Department of Commerce, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to evaluate Kansas sites for the construction of its next-generation and Shivers noted that Greenwood County should look into bringing the power plant to the area.
The facility would require approximately 80– 120 acres; however, Terra-Power’s Natrium reactor is different from a t radit iona l nuclear reactor like a t Wolf Creek and would not need a large water source. The small modular reactor uses sodium as its primary coolant instead of water. TerraPower primarily uses a sodium-cooled Natrium reactor.
In the proposal, it was noted that Greenwood County could see significant indirect job creation through local services, housing, education, and supply chain industries.
Shivers noted that “The multi-year construction timeline offers the region a unique opportunity to plan and develop new housing and infrastructure to support incoming workers, further stimulating the local economy.” She continued, “This project represents one of the m o s t transformative economic development opportunities for Greenwood County and the surrounding region in decades.”
“Greenwood County offers several competitive advantages that align closely with TerraPower’s site requirements,” stated Shivers.
Commission Heard Advanced Nuclear Facility Proposal .
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She further referenced strategic location, utility partnership, land availability, workforce and education, and community readiness.
Shivers plans to attend the next Eureka City Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 10, to share the proposal and hopefully gain their support. Shivers also shared recommended next steps, which included submitting letters of interest by Dec. 1 and coordinating with partners.
It was shared that Lyon County, Coffey County and Hutchinson have submitted letters of interest, with the deadline to submit letters of interest being Dec. 1 of this year.
In conclusion, Shivers said, “Hosting TerraPower’s advanced nuclear facility would position Greenwood County at the forefront of Kansas’ energy future. With available infrastructure, a skilled and trainable workforce, and strong local and regional collaboration, Greenwood County stands ready to partner in this landmark opportunity for sustainable growth and innovation.”
The county approved a motion to draft a letter of support and interest in bringing a TerraPower advanced nuclear facility to Greenwood Country. Shivers will work with County Counselor Paul Dean to draft the letter and will also work with web developer Taylor Hunt to provide detailed information on the project on the county’s website.
Darren Booth with Theel Insurance provided an overview of the county’s group health insurance renewal. The overview included services provided through insurance remaining the same, while noting a 2% increase for the 2026 fiscal year. During the discussion, it was noted that the county has seen an increase of 52% in the last three years.
Sheriff Heath Samuels and EMS Director Brian Mongeau both presented employment verifications. Sheriff Samuels shared that after nearly 16 years of working for the sheriff’s office, Dispatcher Jackie Shirley will be retiring in December. The commission approved to hire Elizabeth Freund, $16.15 per hour, as of Tuesday, Nov. 4. The commission also approved to hire Cobe Kunkel as a part-time paramedic effective Oct. 28, at a rate of $20.19 per hour.
Discussion was held regarding purchasing a new mower for road and bridge. Commissioners suggested a right-hand wing over a bat wing mower.
The 2026 calendar was reviewed, which noted the paydays and the 10 holidays. County Clerk Deann McCaffree noted that with Christmas falling on a Friday next year, the county will swap holidays and work Columbus Day to give staff Christmas Eve off instead.
With the 2025 year-end dinner just under two months away, the commission approved to solicit bids for a brisket dinner (and an optional dinner) for Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 1 p.m. The clerk’s office will be sending letters to various catering businesses in the area.
Road and Bridge provided the commission with a written report as Supervisor Allen Greenwood was unavailable to attend the weekly meeting.
The Oct. 27 meeting minutes were approved as presented, as well as special payables, totaling $4,692.29.
The Nov. 4 General Election was slated from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. this week. Official results will be shared following the canvassing of ballots on Monday, Nov. 17.
The commission met for the Mann Road viewing following the meeting on Monday. Their findings will be shared at next week’s meeting, on Monday, Nov. 10, at 9 a.m.
