City of El Reno condemns Bitcoin mining facility after massive water leak, citing safety violations
The City of El Reno condemned a Bitcoin mining facility operated by Athlon Blockchain LLC after a massive water line failure leaked 3 million gallons and caused widespread disruption. The city cited multiple fire and life safety code violations and alleged the company continued operations without a certificate of occupancy. El Reno is preparing to take legal action to recoup all related costs.
The City of El Reno has condemned a Bitcoin mining facility owned by Athlon Blockchain LLC following a significant water line failure that leaked three million gallons last week. This incident led to the shutdown of local schools, businesses, and city and county offices.
According to a statement released by the city, a Stop Work Order was initially issued to Athlon Blockchain LLC in 2023 due to "multiple fire and life safety code violations as well as the expiration of the building and electrical permits." The property owner, whose facility is located along South Jensen Road, was given until the end of 2023 to secure new permits and was instructed to cease construction until a certificate of occupancy was obtained.
City officials now believe, though unconfirmed, that the facility continued construction and began operations despite lacking a Certificate of Occupancy. Upon discovering the water leak, city staff condemned the property, citing ongoing fire and life safety code violations that, in conjunction with the leak, posed a hazard to the community. The city's legal team is preparing to take necessary actions to recoup all costs and expenses related to the water leak from the property owner, assuring citizens that these costs will not be passed on to them. The company's website indicates it specializes in mobile data centers for AI storage and Bitcoin mining, housed in shipping containers.