Fentress County Executive Jacob E. Rosenbaum has officially announced his opposition to locating a long-term nuclear waste repository within the county.

In an official statement addressing the community, Rosenbaum emphasized that while he is not opposed to nuclear energy or research, the burden of proof required to guarantee the safety of local residents, land, and water resources has not been met. His announcement follows state-level discussions regarding potential Cumberland Plateau sites for the Tennessee Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus and comes on the heels of similar concerns raised by Representatives Kelly Keisling and Ed Butler.

Rosenbaum clarified that no site in Fentress County has been definitively selected or approved for construction. However, he is demanding direct answers and transparency from state officials concerning geological evaluations, water protection, transportation logistics, and emergency preparedness.

Emphasizing that hosting a long-term nuclear storage facility carries multi-generational consequences distinct from ordinary economic development projects, the County Executive pledged to maintain strict vigilance alongside the County Commission and local partners to ensure community interests remain protected.