Residents of a rural Hood County community voted down plans to incorporate as a city, losing their bid to gain authority over a nearby Bitcoin mining site blamed for constant noise pollution.
Texas Residents Lose Battle to Curb Bitcoin Mining Noise
Residents in a small rural community in Hood County, Texas, have failed in their attempt to incorporate as a new municipality called Mitchell Bend, a move aimed at gaining control over a Bitcoin mining facility they claim is disrupting daily life.
According to local reports, only 38% of 138 voters supported the proposal to establish the two-square-mile town, home to about 600 residents. The failed measure means locals remain under county jurisdiction, limiting their ability to regulate the noise from MARA’s 60,000 Bitcoin miners operating nearby.
For the past three years, residents have complained that the constant humming and vibrations from the mining rigs have caused sleepless nights, headaches, and even hearing issues, with some families reportedly relocating to escape the disturbance.
MARA’s Efforts Fall Short
The mining company, MARA, has made several attempts to mitigate the issue — including building a 24-foot sound barrier and converting two-thirds of its cooling systems to liquid technology — but locals claim the noise remains unbearable.
MARA initially sued to block the incorporation vote in late October, arguing that becoming a city could “tax the company out of business.” After the lawsuit was dismissed, a company spokesperson celebrated the result, saying,
“We’re pleased that Hood County voters saw through the sham incorporation effort and rejected it at the ballot box.”
Locals Vow to Continue the Fight
Despite the loss, residents insist they will continue their fight for peace and environmental protection.
“Although we took a loss here, we’re going to move forward and continue to do what we can to not let industry take over Hood County,” said local resident Danny Lakey.
The conflict in Hood County reflects a growing national debate over the environmental and social impacts of Bitcoin mining, particularly in rural areas where miners often capitalize on low energy costs.
With crypto mining operations expanding across the U.S., the Mitchell Bend case underscores the struggle between local communities seeking peace and a booming digital industry seeking growth.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.