Bitcoin & AI Data Centers

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Until Van Buren County takes steps to protect the health and welfare of its citizens from bitcoin mining facilities and AI data centers, the cheap electricity, land, and water (compared to national averages) combined with no local regulations will keep attracting them. 

Mayoral candidate Barry Austin has attempted to sell his land twice to a bitcoin company. In 2023 and then again in the spring of 2026.

The bitcoin company Tennessee Falls Mining LLC, with Austin's storage facility listed as the principal office, remains on file with the Secretary of State. Although Austin's deal with Nooganode reportedly fell through on May 14.

In the June Republican Party meeting, Mr. Austin delivered a speech including the suggestion that AI data centers were here and we should get what we can out of them. It's the second time I've heard him suggest AI data centers would benefit the county. He continues to encourage Van Buren to welcome these facilities despite the fact that  the community largely rejects them. 

Those of us who want these facilities highly regulated must press our commissioners and our mayor to block any such development until our  commissioners come up with adequate regulations to protect our people.  And that's why we're circulating a petition to do exactly that. 

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Update August 1, 2026

I appeared before the County Commissioners in the June meeting and outlined your concerns related to Bitcoin and AI Data Centers. I explained the need for a temporary block or moratorium. And I explained why a complete ban would result in legal and attorney fees that our small county cannot afford.  I suggested a short moratorium (our circulating petition called for 18 months). 

In July, despite there being no previous discussion of Bitcon and/or AI Data Centers outside of my statements in the June meeting, the commission quickly voted in favor of a two year moratorium both in committee and in the In the July county commission meeting. 

This win resulted from your discussions with family and friends, your signatures on the circulating petition, and the very obvious  county-wide desire for a temporary block/moratorium on these unregulated invasive businesses.

Your commissioners and your mayor take an oath to protect this county.  It is your right to request protection from those whom you've voted into power.  Thank you for taking a stand, Van Buren.