Alabama Homeowners Turn Down Free Cash and Internet to Block Bitcoin Mining Data Center
Residents in Somerville, Alabama, are strongly opposing Voltcore's plan to build a Bitcoin mining data center, rejecting incentives like cash and free internet. They are concerned about potential noise, traffic, and power lines, arguing it will destroy their peaceful rural environment. With a lack of specific zoning laws for data centers in unincorporated Morgan County, residents are urging the county commission to establish new regulatory protections.
Homeowners in rural Somerville, Alabama, are vehemently opposing a proposed Bitcoin mining data center development by Voltcore along Union Road. Despite offers of cash, free internet service, and natural gas lines, residents remain unified against the project, citing concerns over noise pollution, increased traffic on narrow roads, and the visual impact of 75-foot high-voltage power lines.
Voltcore and Joe Wheeler Electric require easement access from four property owners to install the necessary transmission lines for the 15-acre facility. During a private meeting, Voltcore representatives attempted to assure neighbors that the project would create 20-30 local jobs and not strain local utilities, but their presentation failed to convince residents like Will and Lyndsey Hutson, and Preston Graham.
The proposed site's location in an unincorporated part of Morgan County means there are currently no specific local zoning laws or regulatory protections governing commercial data facilities. Morgan County Commission Chairman Ray Long stated that while the county lacks the direct legal means to block the project, he will not support it due to overwhelming community opposition. Residents are now actively lobbying the county commission to swiftly implement new regulations to prevent similar industrial developments in rural areas.