Crypto Mining Proposal Withdrawn After Strong Public Opposition in Minnesota

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Hongji Feng

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Hongji Feng

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Hongji is a crypto and tech reporter. He graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism with a Bachelor's and a Master's. He has previously interned at HTX (Huobi Global),...

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September 26, 2024

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Revolve Labs withdrew its proposal to establish a crypto-mining facility in Windom, Minnesota, on September 26, following opposition from local residents.

According to a report by The Minnesota Star Tribune, the decision was made after a public hearing where community members voiced concerns over the noise generated by crypto-mining operations.

Opposition Against Mining Facility in Minnesota

Local residents were concerned about the noise pollution and potential impact on property values. The company cited its commitment to aligning with community values as a reason for pulling the application.

“Our commitment is to operate in a way that aligns with community values and priorities, and we recognize that collaboration is essential to achieving this,” said Revolve Labs senior operations manager Jeff St. Onge.

The company had initially proposed the facility near Cottonwood Lake, expecting to generate $35,000 monthly in service fees for the city of Windom. The project was expected to bring economic benefits to the area but faced significant pushback from residents.

At a public hearing held in August, many of the approximately 100 attendees raised issues about the company’s existing operation in Glencoe, Minnesota, where residents had complained of excessive noise from crypto mining equipment.

Concerns were not limited to noise pollution; residents also questioned the overall impact of crypto mining on property values and the potential environmental effects associated with the constant power usage of such facilities.

In response to the backlash, local officials recommended a moratorium on new crypto mining permits in the county, indicating a broader hesitancy to approve similar projects in the future.

Local Community’s Mixed Reactions

The report included mixed reactions from the local residents following Revolve Labs’ decision to withdraw its proposal. While some expressed relief, others were disappointed by the loss of potential economic benefits.

One resident stated that the community was “overjoyed the current worry is over,” while others noted that the project’s withdrawal might mean missing out on financial gains for the town.