Mason County approves 2,000-acre data center zoning; residents face displacement, lawsuit filed
The Mason County Fiscal Court approved zoning for a 2,000-acre data center in Maysville, Kentucky, leading to the displacement of dozens of residents. Affected individuals have been offered buyouts but express uncertainty about their future housing. A lawsuit against the project has been filed by a group of residents, with a court hearing set for June 26.
The Mason County Fiscal Court has approved zoning for a sprawling 2,000-acre data center project in Maysville, Kentucky, a decision that will force dozens of residents of the Meadowland Village trailer park to relocate. Residents, including Gregory Thomas Jones, expressed their dismay, stating they "got caught in the middle" of the development. The complex where they live was reportedly sold as part of the data center plans, with residents offered $50,000 buyouts.
Lisa Helphinstine, another affected resident, highlighted the difficulty of finding new homes in the area, stating, "I have no idea where I'm gonna go." Jones indicated that if the project timeline holds, residents would have 90 days to vacate their homes after July. He remains skeptical that a legal challenge will reverse the court's decision.
Prior to the Friday night vote, an official involved with the project presented arguments to the Mason County Fiscal Court, emphasizing the "economic development benefits" and downplaying fears of the county being overrun by data centers, noting the necessity of power. However, a group of Mason County residents had previously threatened legal action if the plans progressed. A lawsuit has now been officially filed, and a court hearing is scheduled for June 26.