City of Ashland considering eminent domain for AK Steel property amid data center proposal
The City of Ashland, Kentucky, is exploring the use of eminent domain to acquire a former AK Steel property that is also being considered by Rubix Data Centers for development. The city aims to protect critical raw water intake facilities located on the property. No definitive action has been taken yet, but the city views the infrastructure as vital to the community.
The City of Ashland, Kentucky, is considering using its eminent domain powers to acquire a portion of the former AK Steel Coke Plant property. This move comes as Rubix Data Centers has proposed building multiple data centers, including on the same property, which spans Greenup and Boyd Counties.
Ashland City Attorney Andrew Wheeler sent a letter to the current property owner, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., indicating the city's interest in purchasing the land due to its vital infrastructure. The property houses the city's raw water intake facilities and lines, which are deemed the most critical piece of infrastructure the city owns. Wheeler's letter noted a lack of communication regarding a potential city purchase and stated that the eminent domain option is being evaluated following news of a third party's involvement.
The city emphasizes its need to ensure permanent and reliable access to and protection of this water infrastructure, expressing that current circumstances may leave eminent domain as the only option. However, the city is open to discussing a negotiated resolution or other alternatives to safeguard community interests. As of the article's publication, no further action has been taken, and Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. had not yet responded to inquiries from WOWK 13 News.