Petition to Halt Bitcoin Mining Operations in South Johnson City (South Roan Street)

We, the undersigned residents, community members, and stakeholders of Johnson City, Tennessee, are writing to express our firm opposition to the proposed Bitcoin mining operation located on Innovation Drive off of Buffalo Road in South Johnson City.

This facility, while marketed as a cutting-edge technological development, poses serious environmental, public health, and quality-of-life concerns for the surrounding community. We call upon local officials, city planners, the Johnson City Commission, and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation to take immediate action to halt this project and prevent further development of similar industrial cryptocurrency operations within city limits—especially in such close proximity to residential and sensitive community areas.

Environmental and Public Health Concerns
1. Excessive Noise Pollution
Bitcoin mining facilities house thousands of specialized computers known as ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), which run 24/7 to solve cryptographic equations. These machines generate continuous, high-decibel noise, further amplified by powerful industrial cooling systems and fans. According to studies, noise levels from similar mining operations can reach over 85 decibels—comparable to standing next to a lawnmower or busy highway—and they operate nonstop, day and night.

It is estimate a mining operation can affect up to 5 miles from the site. This site is less than 5 miles from the following sensitive areas:

Residential neighborhoods: Buffalo Mountain Road, Garland Acres, Tree Streets subdivision, and a new housing development nearby and many, many more residences.

Schools and childcare facilities: Ashley Academy, South Side Elementary, East Tennessee State University

Historic and recreational sites: Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site,  Pine Oaks Golf Course, and Buffalo Mountain Park

Essential services and businesses: Grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and local and chain businesses, the VA Hospital

Prolonged exposure to chronic noise levels above 55 decibels is associated with:

Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Elevated stress levels and mental health issues
Sleep disturbance and cognitive impairment—especially concerning for nearby children and school communities

2. Air and Thermal Pollution
Though Bitcoin mining operations do not release traditional air pollutants, they produce a tremendous amount of waste heat, which is expelled into the environment. In many cases, this raises the temperature in the immediate surroundings, disrupting local microclimates and placing additional strain on nearby vegetation and ecosystems.

Additionally, diesel generators are often used during peak energy demand or power outages, emitting harmful particulate matter and greenhouse gases. If this site utilizes such backups, it will contribute to local air pollution, directly contradicting the city's sustainability goals.

3. Unsustainable Energy Use
Bitcoin mining is extraordinarily energy-intensive. Even small-scale operations can consume the equivalent power of hundreds—or even thousands—of homes. This increased demand:

Strains the local power grid
Drives up electricity costs for residents and small businesses
Undermines regional efforts to transition to clean energy and reduce carbon emissions
In an era of mounting climate crises, permitting an energy-hungry operation such as this sends the wrong message about Johnson City’s environmental values and commitment to public welfare.

 
Impact on Property Values and Community Aesthetics
The persistent noise, industrial appearance, and environmental degradation caused by Bitcoin mining can lower property values and make nearby homes less desirable. Residents did not purchase homes or invest in businesses expecting an industrial-grade data center nearby—especially one that operates without significant community benefit and with high external costs borne by local families.

 
Call to Action
We respectfully request that Johnson City’s leadership:

Immediately halt plans of the Innovation Drive Bitcoin mining facility
Implement zoning restrictions that prohibit crypto mining operations within close proximity to schools, residential areas, and public parks
Conduct a full environmental and health impact assessment
Establish community input protocols for any future industrial tech developments
 
Conclusion
The presence of a Bitcoin mining operation in South Johnson City is a threat to our environment, our health, and our community’s character. Its noise, energy consumption, and heat output offer no meaningful benefit to local residents, while imposing significant risk and disturbance. We urge you to act swiftly and decisively to protect the well-being of our neighborhoods, our children, and our shared environment. The Johnson City City Council is discussing and voting on this NOW!

Sign below to stand with your neighbors in opposition to Bitcoin mining in our community.