LaFollette mulls moratorium on data centers, bitcoin mining
The LaFollette City Council is considering proposing a moratorium on data centers and bitcoin mining, discussing the potential economic, environmental, and nuisance impacts. This follows similar actions and discussions in nearby municipalities and counties in Tennessee, including McMinnville, Anderson County, Caryville, and Jacksboro. The mayor expressed strong opposition due to concerns about high electricity consumption and noise.
The LaFollette City Council recently discussed the potential implementation of a moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining within the city. City Attorney Karen Crutchfield highlighted that the city of McMinnville has already enacted a successful moratorium to study the impacts of these industries, while Anderson County passed a two-year moratorium to prevent approvals in certain zoning areas during that period.
During the workshop, the council considered both one-year and two-year moratorium options, with Crutchfield noting that some believe a two-year period might be too long given the rapid evolution of the industry and potential economic benefits. Neighboring municipalities, including the Caryville and Jacksboro Boards of Mayor and Aldermen, have already passed ordinances restricting cryptocurrency mining and data centers, and the Jellico Board of Mayor and Aldermen is also considering similar measures. LaFollette is reportedly the last municipality in Campbell County to address the issue.
Councilwoman Stephanie Grimm Solomon and Councilman Mark Hoskins emphasized the critical role of LaFollette Utilities (LUB) and the need for all local municipalities to be on the same page regarding electricity consumption. LaFollette Mayor Scotty Kitts expressed strong personal opposition to data centers, citing concerns about their high electricity demand (