Texas Mayor: Bitcoin Mining Is Like a Digital Oil Well

Mayor Ward Roddam of Rockdale, Texas, recently published an article in the Austin American-Statesman, elaborating on the important role of the Bitcoin mining industry in the local economic recovery. Mayor Roddam likened Bitcoin mining to a "digital oil well" and believed that it has the potential to promote economic revitalization in rural areas throughout Texas, with an impact comparable to the oil boom of the past. According to Mayor Roddam, since the closure of the city's largest employer, Alcoa Aluminum, in 2008, the Bitcoin mining industry has injected new economic vitality into Rockdale by utilizing the legacy energy infrastructure. Specifically, it is manifested in the following aspects: Employment market: Bitcoin mining companies have created hundreds of jobs in the local area, providing residents with high-paying employment opportunities; Fiscal revenue: Mining companies have become one of the main sources of tax revenue for Milan County and local school districts; Community development: These companies actively participate in local public welfare, including setting up scholarships, supporting police and fire departments, sponsoring youth sports and chamber of commerce activities, etc.; Economic investment: Bitcoin mining companies have invested more than $1 billion in Rockdale. Mayor Roddam stressed that Bitcoin mining companies demonstrate deep involvement and long-term commitment to the communities in which they operate. He called on Texas legislators to fully recognize the positive impact of the Bitcoin mining industry and create a favorable policy environment for its development. The mayor said: "Texas leaders should fully recognize the economic benefits of Bitcoin mining. If we can provide appropriate policy support for its development, Bitcoin mining is expected to become a new growth point to promote the revitalization of the rural economy in Texas."