Emery County Commissioner Highlights Youth Prevention, Community Investment

Jordan Leonard discusses nuclear energy development, veterans memorial, and youth programs in the county.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Emery County Commissioner Jordan Leonard joined KOAL News to discuss the county's efforts to balance traditional industries like coal with new developments like the arrival of Valar Atomics' nuclear reactor, as well as investments in youth prevention programs and community projects like rebuilding the veterans memorial.

Why it matters

As Emery County navigates a transition towards tourism and energy diversification, the county commissioners are working to preserve the area's culture and heritage while also embracing new economic opportunities. Leonard's comments provide insight into how the county is approaching this balance.

The details

Leonard discussed Valar Atomics' plans to bring a new nuclear reactor to the county, noting the company has been transparent about their plans and that the county welcomes the development as a supplement to their existing coal industry. He also highlighted a $3,500 donation to help rebuild the veterans memorial outside the John Wesley Powell River Museum, as well as the work of the OneDirection Prevention Coalition to provide resources for local youth.

  • The Valar Atomics nuclear reactor arrived in Emery County in early 2026 after being flown in from California.
  • The county held two public hearings in early 2026 to allow the public to learn more about Valar Atomics' plans.

The players

Jordan Leonard

Emery County Commissioner who discussed the county's efforts to balance traditional industries with new economic developments.

Valar Atomics

A company that is bringing a new nuclear reactor, the Ward250, to Emery County.

OneDirection Prevention Coalition

A local organization that provides resources and programs for youth in Emery County to address issues like drug use, alcohol, tobacco, and bullying.

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What they’re saying

“Watching research and development happen in our county is a good thing. We just want to make sure that we're careful with nuclear and what it presents. But we're excited about that development and things like that, and safety is always our highest priority. But we're really excited about that development.”

— Jordan Leonard, Emery County Commissioner (KOAL News)

“We definitely want to make sure that our veterans are highlighted and have memorials like that. And so we wanted to contribute to that to make sure that it's rebuilt properly.”

— Jordan Leonard, Emery County Commissioner (KOAL News)

“The goal is to make sure that our youth have all the resources that they can with the world that we live in – drugs, alcohol, tobacco, as well as bullying and different social things that happen. And so OneDirection is a great resource. They're getting more and more involved in the community.”

— Jordan Leonard, Emery County Commissioner (KOAL News)

What’s next

The county commissioners will continue to monitor the development of the Valar Atomics nuclear reactor project and ensure safety remains the top priority. They will also work to support the OneDirection Prevention Coalition's efforts to provide resources for local youth.

The takeaway

Emery County is navigating a delicate balance between preserving its traditional industries and embracing new economic opportunities, all while investing in the community's youth and veterans. The county's approach highlights the challenges and opportunities facing rural areas as they adapt to changing times.