ROGERSVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Hawkins County Commission approved an ordinance banning data mining centers in the county after community members expressed concerns.

The room was packed with citizens during Monday night's meeting, when commissioners voted 10–2 on the ordinance.

It was passed after the Bitcoin mining company Exotic Ridge expressed interest in establishing a mine in Bulls Gap.

County Mayor Mark DeWitte said county leaders acted on community members' concerns.

"They heard the citizens of Bulls Gap, and that's what they're elected for," DeWitte said. "They are to take the citizens' opinion into consideration much more than their own. And I think that they did that tonight."

Concerns included environmental and health impacts and increased noise.

Exotic Ridge CEO Will Doug

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