Residents of North Tonawanda Push for Moratorium on Crypto Mining Plant Noise

Residents in North Tonawanda, N.Y. are fed up with the non-stop noise coming from a crypto mining plant in their neighborhood. At a public hearing on Tuesday, residents pleaded with city leaders to take action to address the disruptive noise levels.

Mayor Austin Tylec has proposed a two-year moratorium on all new crypto mining developments in response to the residents’ concerns. The moratorium would prevent existing facilities from expanding and halt the development of new ones. The proposal is set to be voted on by the common council on July 16.

Residents at the public hearing expressed frustration over the constant noise coming from the plant on Erie Avenue, stating that it has significantly impacted their quality of life. Many shared stories of being unable to enjoy their own property due to the loud noise levels.

In addition to noise concerns, residents are also worried about the pollution being produced by the plant. Some residents claim that the plant is emitting higher levels of greenhouse gases than 160,000 residents would in a year.

Deborah Gondek, chair of the North Tonawanda Climate Smart Task Force, acknowledged that the moratorium may not immediately resolve the current noise and pollution issues caused by the crypto mining plant, but it will prevent the situation from worsening.

Mayor Tylec emphasized that the two-year moratorium would give the city time to study the potential impacts of crypto developments on the community. The proposal has garnered support from nearby residents who are hopeful that it will bring them some peace of mind.

The residents’ concerns have sparked a debate on the regulation of crypto mining operations in North Tonawanda, with many calling for stricter measures to address the noise and pollution issues. The outcome of the upcoming vote on the moratorium will determine the future of crypto mining developments in the city.