Marion City Council Halts Crypto Mining Operations with One-Year Moratorium

The Marion City Council has approved a one-year moratorium on cryptocurrency mining operations, which are composed of clusters of high-powered computers. Crypto mining has been a controversial topic nationwide due to its high electricity and water consumption and constant noise production.

The moratorium will provide the city with time to investigate the impact of these operations and develop regulations that ensure public health, general welfare, and economic prosperity are protected.

Council Member Chet Effler emphasized the need to be focused on the upcoming ordinance. City officials, including City Manager Bob Boyette, expressed concerns about the noise and environmental impact of crypto mining operations, noting that they could potentially harm neighborhoods and industrial properties.

The decision follows a recent report on a crypto mining operation near Murphy, which has drawn complaints from local residents about the persistent noise, compared to a «never-ending airplane engine.» After a public hearing, the council agreed to implement the moratorium on cryptocurrency mining.