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The Town of Canton, North Carolina, is considering a ban on cryptocurrency mining and data centers, with a public hearing scheduled for February 11. This decision follows inquiries from companies about utilizing the former paper mill site, which has been closed since 2023.

Canton Mayor Smathers expressed concerns that potential environmental impacts from such operations could outweigh the benefits of increased tax revenue. Other counties, including Haywood, Clay, Cherokee, Jackson, and Macon, are also evaluating restrictions on these industries due to similar environmental concerns. Haywood County has already implemented high-impact ordinances to regulate energy and water use for new industrial facilities.