MOUNTAIN CITY, TENN (WCYB) — A proposed Bitcoin mining facility is generating buzz and concern in Mountain City.
Nevada-based tech company CleanSpark wants to establish a large-scale cryptocurrency mining operation in the area, promising local jobs and economic growth. Some residents are raising questions about its environmental impact and transparency.
The facility would rely on energy-intensive computing to validate Bitcoin transactions. Community members fear the round-the-clock operation could strain resources, hike up utility costs and disrupt the rural character of Johnson County.
“No one asked us what we thought. We just heard about it after the fact,” said Amelia Lopez Saltarelli
The proposed site is located just off Highway 421 right near a suburbanized area. Which has caused concern to residents over the noise and environmental impact it will have.
Mayor Jerry Jordan is going to Norcross, Georgia with other town leaders to tour one of the CleanSpark’s facilities.
“This is probably the most critical decisions I’ve ever madeI’m taking this seriously,” Jordan said.
Community members are asking the council to either cancel or postpone the meeting Tuesday so they can evaluate the risks together.
