FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 27, 2022
CONTACT: John Egelhaaf, Executive Director of SWMPC at (269) 925-1137
Palisades Nuclear Economic Recovery Initiative - Public Survey
The public is invited to engage in the work of the Palisades Economic Recovery Initiative. The first analysis phase of the work is at an important stage where public review and input can be particularly valuable. To simplify engagement, a survey has been developed. To participate in the survey please visit www.vanburencountymi.gov/740/Stay-Connected. The Palisades Economic Recovery Initiative is comprised of federal, state, and local officials along with the private sector who are joining together to build a comprehensive economic recovery strategy to assist Van Buren County and the region in preparation of the closure of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant. Since going on line in 1967, the plant has served as a major economic driver in the region, providing high-paying jobs, a tax base, and have supported local communities.
Recent developments between the Governor and the U.S. Department of Energy bring the planned May 31 Palisades shut-down into question. In spite of those developments, it is prudent for the Recovery Initiative to continue until confirmation of a change in the existing closure is received.
The partnership driving the Initiative includes the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, Market Van Buren, Kinexus Group, Van Buren County Government, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the University of Michigan’s Economic Growth Institute, the Michigan Department of Treasury, and the Michigan Public Service Commission. At each step of the process, the partners will produce and publically share components of the Recovery Strategy. The partnership will collaborate with a diverse group of community members and leaders, established as the Palisades Community Advisory Panel (PCAP). The PCAP will be an important intersection for all information regarding the Palisades closure and decommissioning. The group producing the Recovery Strategy will regularly reach out to the PCAP and the general public to invite critique of the Strategy as it is being developed.
The public can also follow and provide input by visiting www.vanburencoutymi.gov/725/Palisades-Economic-Recovery-Initative. Another option to connect is through the Initiative’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Palisades.Economic.Recovery.Initiative.