In a significant legal development, a federal judge has granted approval for an amended consent decree to resolve a contentious dispute between Arkansas County officials and the proprietor of a cryptocurrency mining facility. The dispute, which centered on a noise ordinance imposed by the county, led to protracted legal proceedings between the parties.
Last Friday, representatives from Jones Digital LLC and Arkansas County convened before U.S. District Judge Lee Rudofsky to negotiate the terms of a consent decree aimed at amicably resolving the dispute. During the hearing, Burt Newell, legal counsel for Arkansas County, underscored the exorbitant costs incurred by both parties in pursuing litigation, signaling a mutual desire for resolution.
The dispute originated in November when Jones Digital filed a lawsuit against Arkansas County following the enactment of a noise ordinance by the county’s quorum court. The ordinance, which targeted the crypto mining operation then under construction near DeWitt, prompted legal action from Jones Digital, citing concerns over compliance challenges and the feasibility of adhering to revised noise level regulations.
Central to the dispute was the county’s decision to amend noise level limits, reducing permissible levels during both day and night hours. Jones Digital contended that the revised limits were impractical, citing ambient noise levels surrounding the facility, including noise generated by nearby infrastructure such as highways and airport runways.
In its lawsuit, Jones Digital invoked Act 851 of 2023, enacted by the Arkansas General Assembly, arguing that the county’s actions amounted to discriminatory regulation specifically targeting its operations. The amended consent decree, approved by Judge Rudofsky, enshrines provisions aimed at safeguarding Jones Digital’s rights against discriminatory practices while offering clarity on the scope of county regulations.
Under the terms of the consent decree, Arkansas County is prohibited from enacting or enforcing laws that discriminate against Jones Digital or impede its lawful business operations. The decree also acknowledges the county’s jurisdiction to enforce other business-oriented laws, ensuring a balanced approach to regulatory oversight.
In a press release issued by the legal representatives of Jones Digital, attorneys Alex Jones and Will Ogles expressed satisfaction with the resolution, hailing it as a vindication of the company’s rights and a testament to the collaborative spirit between the parties. The release underscored Jones Digital’s commitment to local engagement and economic contribution, highlighting the company’s role in supporting local workers and businesses.
In his ruling, Judge Rudofsky affirmed the reasonableness and fairness of the amended consent decree, emphasizing its alignment with constitutional and statutory principles. The approval of the decree marks a pivotal milestone in the resolution of the dispute, offering a path forward for both Arkansas County and Jones Digital to pursue their respective interests within a framework of legal certainty and mutual respect.
