El Reno data center water line leak wastes over 3 million gallons, city issues violations

A damaged private water line at a data center in El Reno caused more than 3 million gallons of water to be wasted this week, prompting the city to issue emergency abatement and public nuisance notices.

The water line, connected to a fire hydrant on private property, was responsible for the massive leak, according to city officials. The business involved, Athlon BT, specializes in mobile data centers for AI storage and Bitcoin mining, which are equipped with air- and water-cooling technology.

“In this day and age, that’s not acceptable,” said Shellie Seale, a local resident.

“It’s just concerning how much water we lost so quickly,” said Jim Waggoner, another resident.

WATCH: El Reno water leak drains water tower, closes schools and offices as crews hunt for source

City officials discovered multiple violations at the property, including a failed water line, lack of maintenance and access, drainage issues, expired building permits, and the absence of a final certificate of occupancy. The structures were also flagged as dangerous.

When reporters visited the site, a man was seen on the property but declined to comment on camera.

“People have to start thinking long-term about the water, what they’re gonna use,” Seale said.

WATCH: El Reno schools, offices reopen as city battles water levels after locating leak on private property

“Being an old guy, I don’t think we need it,” Waggoner said.

Athlon BT has not responded to requests for comment. The company has 10 days to address the public nuisance conditions, or the city may take further action.

An administrative hearing on the property is scheduled for late September.