Kentucky farmers turn down $26 million AI data-center proposal

Delsia Bare and Ida Huddleston, who describe themselves as “country hicks,” were offered a combined $26.48 million for their historic Maysville farm after an unidentified AI company approached them. The proposal included $48,000 per acre for 463 acres and $60,000 per acre for 71 acres, far above market rates. Upon learning the buyer intended to develop data centers to power AI bots, the duo rescinded the agreement, telling the sales team to “kick rocks and don’t come back.”

The company, thought to be tied to Meta, has not confirmed any plans for the site. While some local landowners have accepted comparable offers, Bare and other opponents have filed lawsuits to halt the project, citing concerns over community impact. Economic development director Tyler McHugh noted that the legal actions could bring many residents into court for the first time. Bare, who is nearly blind, and Huddleston, who uses a cane, expressed surprise at becoming frontline opponents of a high-tech development in their rural area.