MARA Holdings is a large, publicly traded company with digital infrastructure operations around the world. Bitcoin mining remains at the core of its business, even as it expands into data centers and AI computing. In Kearney, MARA is a partner in Project Horizon, a project presented as a transition to a quieter operation. 

MARA should not wait for Project Horizon to be built before addressing the noise from its bitcoin mining operation in Kearney.

The mine’s large cooling fans produce a loud, persistent roar that carries beyond the facility’s property line and into the surrounding community. Kearney has adopted a 55 dBA day-night average noise limit for data center projects. The City Council should clearly explain what protections apply to the current mine, and make sure residents get real relief while Project Horizon is being built. 

MARA says it wants to be a good neighbor. This is the time to prove it. Project Horizon is meant to replace the mining operation, but the mine is expected to remain open until the first phase is complete. Residents should not be told to simply endure the noise until then. 

Granbury, Texas, shows why waiting is not an acceptable plan. Residents near another MARA bitcoin mine have continued to report a persistent roar, even after a sound wall was installed. Their dispute with the company has escalated into litigation. MARA disputes the residents’ allegations. Kearney should not have to follow the same path before anyone acts. 

We call on MARA to:

• Fund an independent, professional noise study at the property line and in nearby neighborhoods, including nighttime and low-frequency noise.
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  *Make practical noise reductions immediately, while the study is underway.
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  *Publish the findings and a firm schedule for completing additional mitigation.
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  *Commit to effective relief asap. If they cannot do that, then reduce or suspend the loudest mining operations until the noise is controlled, or end bitcoin mining sooner.

We call on the Kearney City Council to:

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  *Work with MARA on a public, enforceable interim plan with deadlines and progress reports.
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  *Use every lawful option available if MARA does not follow through, including seeking limits on the loudest operations.

This is a chance for MARA to show Kearney what good faith looks like, and for the City Council to stand up for the people who live here. Do not let the current mine’s noise become the community’s first and lasting impression of Project Horizon.