**Mother and Daughter Reject Multi-Million Pound Offers for Kentucky Farmland Amid Data Centre Controversy**
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In a resolute stand against lucrative offers, a Kentucky mother and daughter duo have refused to sell their farmland to unidentified developers proposing a significant data centre project in Mason County. Ida Huddleston, aged 82, and her daughter Delsia Bare, 54, collectively turned down over £26 million for their properties, citing concerns regarding community impact and transparency from the potential buyers.
Huddleston has dismissed several bids for her 71-acre plot, which were reportedly offered at £60,000 per acre. The developers, linked to a significant project aimed at constructing a data centre, have not been publicly identified, leaving the family feeling uneasy about the implications of such a venture. Bare similarly rejected an offer of £48,000 per acre for her expansive 463-acre farm.
In a declaration of defiance, Huddleston stated, “I’m staying put,” emphasising her preference to remain on her land despite the enticing monetary offers. “I don’t want your money, I don’t need your money,” she remarked when addressing the interest from the developers. Her sentiments reflect not only her personal values but also a deep consideration for the impact on the community surrounding her.
The proposed data centre, situated on Big Pond Pike, is touted as a potential catalyst for local employment, promising to generate 400 full-time positions alongside over 1,500 construction jobs. These figures were highlighted by Tyler McHugh, the economic development director for the Maysville-Mason County Industrial Development Authority, who suggested the centre could become one of the region’s largest employers.
Despite the alluring prospects of job creation, both Huddleston and Bare remain highly sceptical. “I estimate there won’t be over 50 jobs by the time they’re done,” Bare speculatively remarked, expressing doubt that the positions promised would eventually materialise.
The local authorities, including the Mason County Fiscal Court, are still deliberating the proposal as discussions regarding its potential repercussions unfold. Public sentiment has been stirred, with many community members considering the long-term effects of such a development on local life, environment, and livelihood.
The refusal from the Huddleston-Bare family to accept these significant offers not only illustrates a commitment to their land but also invites broader discussions about development, community values, and the unseen costs of such projects. Huddleston articulated her worry for those living in proximity to the proposed site, underlining a belief that such developments often overlook the community’s well-being in favour of immediate economic benefit.
As the dialogue continues around the data centre, the Huddleston-Bare family’s brave stance remains a poignant reminder of the tension between personal values and the pull of financial incentives. Their decision to stay put seems rooted in a strong sense of place and belonging, even as significant monetary offers are presented.
In closing, Huddleston succinctly summarised her position on the matter: “I’m staying put.” As deliberations continue, both the family and the community await further developments with a mix of hope and apprehension for the future.