Local Priority Issues
Hanford Communities’ Local Priority Issues focus on the community, economic, historical and civic matters connected to Hanford’s long-term role in the Tri-Cities region.
These issues are part of the Hanford Communities 2026 Issue Agenda and reflect the organization’s interest in ensuring Hanford cleanup decisions support local communities, public services, economic diversification and meaningful public involvement.
Beneficial Reuse of Excess Hanford Land and Facilities
Hanford Communities supports efforts to pursue beneficial reuse of excess land and facilities at Hanford.
Reuse opportunities can support long-term economic diversification, reduce the community’s dependence on federal cleanup funding and help position the Tri-Cities as a national energy hub. Potential opportunities may include projects connected to new nuclear energy, data centers, advanced manufacturing and the nuclear supply chain.
Manhattan Project National Historical Park
Hanford Communities supports efforts to grow and strengthen the Manhattan Project National Historical Park at Hanford.
This includes efforts to preserve and restore the B Reactor and pre-Manhattan Project facilities, expand public awareness of Hanford’s history and maintain public interest in the park while the B Reactor is closed for tours. Virtual tours and access to pre-Manhattan Project facilities can help keep the park visible and connected to the public.
Payment in Lieu of Taxes
Payment in Lieu of Taxes, or PILT, helps support local public services connected to lands used for the Hanford Site.
PILT funds are distributed by counties to local entities such as school districts, library districts and hospital districts. Hanford Communities supports continued federal resources to fully fund the Hanford PILT program and help local governments provide basic public services.
Economic Development and Diversification
Hanford Communities supports economic development and diversification efforts that help the region prepare for Hanford’s long-term future.
This includes transferring surplus Hanford assets, including land and facilities, back to the community for beneficial reuse where appropriate. These efforts can support private-sector job creation, strengthen the local economy and help reduce long-term dependence on federal cleanup funding.
Hanford Advisory Board
Hanford Communities supports a strong and effective Hanford Advisory Board.
The Hanford Advisory Board provides an important forum for Tri-City community members, Tribal representatives and other stakeholders to provide input on Hanford cleanup. Hanford Communities supports efforts to make the board’s work meaningful, timely and useful, including improvements to the nomination and appointment process.