El Reno City Leaders Own Up to Role in Massive Water Leak at Bitcoin Mining Facility

The city of El Reno has acknowledged its own role in a massive water leak at a Bitcoin mining operation. The leak, which occurred last week, released nearly 4 million gallons of water and caused school closures in El Reno and Union City. Interim City Manager Ken Brown took responsibility for the city's actions, stating that they 'failed' to follow up on a stop work order issued in June 2023.

The city had initially denied a permit for Athlon Blockchain, the company operating the mining facility, in 2023 due to fire and life safety violations. However, despite this, the company continued to operate without a license for three years. Brown explained that the city assumed Athlon would comply with the stop work order, but they did not follow up to ensure compliance.

The leak is believed to have been caused by a faulty fire suppression system at the plant. The city has condemned the facility and issued a 10-day removal notice to Athlon. A hearing between the city and Athlon is scheduled for September 14, which will determine what happens next.