The honor was bestowed during the 13th annual Darius Miller & Chris Lofton Skills Camp, held June 9–11, 2026, at the Mason County Fieldhouse. Mayor Debra Cotterill and City Manager Matt Wallingford made the presentation in front of over 100 young campers who had spent the week learning from the two basketball standouts.

“Chris and Darius, for your dedication, time, and effort in ensuring a positive experience for the youth of our area, for being shining, positive examples to our students, and giving generously back to your community, I present you the keys to the City of Maysville, along with our heartfelt thanks, respect, and gratitude,” Mayor Cotterill said.

Local Heroes on the Hardwood

Both Miller and Lofton are graduates of Mason County High School in Maysville. Their paths diverged in college — Miller to the University of Kentucky and Lofton to the University of Tennessee — but they remain deeply connected to their hometown.

Darius Miller played a key role on Kentucky’s 2012 NCAA National Championship team. The 6’7” wing was drafted 46th overall by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans) in 2012 and enjoyed a solid professional career that included time with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Since retiring from playing, Miller has stayed active in the basketball community, running training programs in Lexington with plans to expand youth sports initiatives.

Chris Lofton, a 6’2” sharpshooting guard, is one of the greatest long-range shooters in SEC history. He earned SEC Player of the Year honors in 2007, was a consensus All-American, and set numerous 3-point records at Tennessee. His No. 5 jersey was retired by the Volunteers in 2023. Lofton overcame a cancer diagnosis during his college career and has since become a beloved figure in Kentucky basketball circles, frequently seen at high school games.

Giving Back Through Basketball

The annual skills camp, now in its 13th year, has become a cornerstone event for young athletes in the region. It offers instruction across skill levels for kids ages 7–14, emphasizing not just basketball fundamentals but also character and community values.

Miller and Lofton were joined by their parents for the ceremony, underscoring the family and hometown roots that continue to shape their post-playing lives. As one observer noted, spending time in central Kentucky often means crossing paths with these local legends — proof of their enduring presence and influence.

This recognition highlights more than athletic achievement. It celebrates two men who have translated success on the court into meaningful contributions off it, inspiring the next generation in the very community that nurtured their talents.

Harris has become a prominent community advocate in Maysville, building Hands of Hope into an essential hub for residents facing homelessness, addiction recovery, financial hardship, and related challenges. Since its opening in late 2022, the organization has provided essential supplies, support services, and a compassionate, judgment-free space for those in need.

The Maysville Commission on Human Rights focuses on promoting equal opportunity, addressing discrimination, and advancing civil rights within the city. Appointees are typically chosen for their community leadership, dedication to local issues, and commitment to fairness and inclusion.

Harris joins current members Carmen Gomez, Brey Foster, Jason Giles, and Beth Nolder on the commission.

In addition to her new role, Harris serves as Board Chair of Maysville Hands of Hope Inc. She has spearheaded numerous volunteer initiatives, clothing and supply drives, and collaborative partnerships with local businesses, including STOBER. The nonprofit continues to grow its impact across Mason County, supported entirely by community donations and dedicated volunteers.

Mason County Post will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

In his statement, Sharp wrote: “I would like to sincerely thank the Mason County Fiscal Court for appointing me to the Mason County Joint Planning Commission. It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to serve.” He highlighted the confidence placed in him and his commitment to collaborative decision-making.

“I appreciate the confidence that has been placed in me and look forward to working with my fellow commission members to make thoughtful decisions that benefit Mason County,” Sharp continued. “I am committed to serving with integrity, common sense, and a dedication to our community. Thank you again for this opportunity.”

The Maysville-Mason County Joint Planning Commission plays a key role in land use, zoning, development, and long-term growth planning for the city and county. It consists of members appointed by both the City of Maysville and the Mason County Fiscal Court. The commission has been active in recent discussions involving rezoning, solar ordinances, data center proposals, and comprehensive planning.

Sharp brings experience as Germantown’s mayor and as a candidate for Mason County Commissioner (District 2). His appointment comes amid ongoing local development debates, including large-scale projects that have drawn community attention.

County officials have not yet issued a public statement on the appointment, but Sharp’s message emphasizes unity and responsible stewardship of local resources.

This appointment underscores the Fiscal Court’s focus on incorporating experienced local leaders into planning processes that shape the future of Mason County.

Article based on public social media post and available public records.

Mason County Post directly contacted the nearby West Union, Ohio Frisch’s Big Boy location to confirm the status. An employee stated, “It’s going to be a while, but we do intend to be opening the Maysville location.”

The Maysville Frisch’s, located at 408 Market Square Drive, was among more than a dozen Kentucky locations ordered to close in late 2024 following landlord disputes and eviction proceedings involving NNN REIT. The closures significantly impacted the chain’s presence in the region.

Frisch’s Big Boy remains a beloved regional staple, famous for its iconic Big Boy sandwich, hot fudge cake, and classic diner favorites. While the company has navigated challenges in recent years, many other locations continue to operate successfully across Kentucky, Ohio, and neighboring states.

No specific reopening timeline has been provided. Mason County Post will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details become available.

In the meantime, residents can visit other operating Frisch’s Big Boy locations in the region while awaiting the return of the Maysville restaurant.

This report is based on firsthand confirmation from a Frisch’s employee and publicly available information regarding the 2024 closures.

Mother-Daughter Duo Jessica and Anna Miller took home the top honors and the $1,000 Grand Prize. Their winning performance captivated the audience and judges, earning them the title of Maysville’s Got Talent champions for 2026.

Drew Coleman earned a strong second-place finish and $150, delighting the crowd with a memorable act that showcased his talent and stage presence.

Dakota Bothman rounded out the podium with a solid third-place solo performance, taking home $50.

This year's event was sponsored by Doody Hauls Porta Potty Rental & Septic Service. Doors opened at 7:30 PM with general admission at $10, and the show kicked off at 8:00 PM under the vibrant lights of the Washington Opera House stage.

The competition highlighted the depth of local talent in the Maysville area, with family-friendly entertainment, high energy, and plenty of applause throughout the night.

For more information on upcoming shows and events presented by Maysville Players, visit them at maysvilleplayers.net

The move addresses growing demand for high-quality, American-made drone solutions in key industries including surveying, aerial mapping, mining, construction, and defense. By bringing production in-house, the company aims to fill a gap in U.S.-manufactured options while enhancing quality control and innovation.

“A motivation for us as a company is end-to-end quality control of the solutions we provide,” said Bruce Carlson, founder and president of Carlson Software. “While we operate with offices worldwide and have a global footprint, our home is here in Maysville, Kentucky. It is here where we will continue to grow.”

The expansion is expected to create new technical jobs in the Maysville area, including roles in engineering, assembly, quality assurance, and operations. It builds on Carlson Software’s longstanding commitment to its historic hometown, with prior investments in local landmarks such as Limestone Park, the Parc Cafe, and Kenton Stories with Spirit, a local bookstore and bourbon bar.

The announcement was highlighted in a conversation with Max Moran, a Morehead State University graduate in Space Engineering and a community advocate focused on aerospace and local growth.

“What Carlson Software has built here in Maysville over the years is a testament to what local innovation and dedication to community can accomplish,” Moran said. “Hearing firsthand about this company’s history and where it is headed with the drone and UAV work and the investment in our people, it’s exactly the kind of growth our city needs.”

Carlson Software plans to begin mass production of its new UAV and drone lines in the third quarter of 2026. The company already offers related tools for drone data processing and integration in surveying workflows, positioning it well for this vertical expansion.

This development underscores Kentucky’s growing role in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technology, bringing high-tech jobs and innovation to the region while strengthening domestic supply chains for critical drone applications.

Based on reporting by LEX18: here

Museum staff and community members gathered to celebrate Floyd’s many contributions, filling the rooms with applause, hugs, laughter, and warm tributes. Colleagues praised her kind spirit, creativity, dedication, and “contagious laugh” that brightened the museum’s halls for years.

“It is not goodbye, it is simply ‘see you later!’” the museum posted in a tribute. “Tandy will be back with us this fall for our ‘Read On’ 2026 program, and plans on coming back for visits and working on her genealogy. Thank you Tandy, we’ll be seeing you around!”

Photos from the celebration captured emotional moments: staff and visitors clapping and embracing, Floyd joyfully with friends, and a group photo marking the occasion.

Floyd’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter for the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, but her continued involvement ensures her presence and influence will remain part of the institution’s future.

The museum expressed deep gratitude for Floyd’s years of service and looks forward to welcoming her back in new capacities this fall.

The event, known for its high-energy atmosphere and community spirit, is open to teams looking to compete in the summer hoops showcase. The entry fee is $300 per team, with the first 12 teams accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. A waiting list will be maintained once the field is full.

Teams interested in participating must register by the July 20 deadline. A $100 deposit is required at the time of registration, with the remaining $200 due before the first game.

The “Dirt Bowl” Classic continues a local tradition of summer basketball in Maysville, drawing teams and fans from the region for two days of exciting competition. Organizers encourage teams to register early to secure their spot in the limited field.

To register or for more information check out the flyer and contact: Jason Thompson and John Rice.

This will be the first installment of a series of polls that we will release every two weeks.

Filming will take place primarily downtown, with plans to include a mock Christmas parade that promises to bring holiday magic to the streets of Maysville months ahead of the season.

The feel-good story follows a stressed-out Wall Street widower who swaps his fast-paced finance career for small-town ministry, taking over a quirky local church that needs to be decked out for Christmas. His unlikely ally — and potential love interest — is the vibrant owner of a craft store who hasn’t stepped inside a church since she was left at the altar. Together, they navigate a glittering whirlwind of glue guns, holiday decorations, faith, family, and romance.

Producers are now casting two supporting roles perfect for local senior actors:

Carrie is a sweet, enthusiastic church committee member who speaks with confidence — even when she’s mistaken. The role is open to women aged 70–80 of all ethnicities.

A Male Committee Member is also being sought for a supporting role. This character is open to men aged 70–80 of all ethnicities.

The film celebrates the warmth of small-town life, community spirit, and the magic of Christmas — values that align perfectly with Maysville’s welcoming atmosphere. By shooting downtown and staging a festive mock parade, the production aims to capture the authentic charm of the town and its historic streets on screen.

Interested Maysville actors should email their name and a current headshot to hannahlewiscasting@gmail.com.

In the alleged email, obtained by The Mason County Post, Frame confronted Sheppeck over his mother’s re-election bid loss, accusing the GOP chair of playing a role in that outcome through alleged misinformation and exclusionary tactics.

The message, begins by acknowledging Sheppeck’s primary victory before turning critical. Frame writes:

“Congratulations Jason on your win. Now that the primary is over and the big race begins, I think now is the appropriate time for you to explain to all the people of Mason County why My Mom (Peggy Frame) dropped out of her re-election race for County Commissioner and the role you played in that decision.”

He goes on to allege that Sheppeck provided Peggy Frame with “misinformation and lies” during phone conversations and an in-person meeting at her home. Frame further claims Sheppeck deliberately excluded his mother from official GOP communications, including texts, emails, and event notifications.

The email continues:

“Such as the misinformation and lies told to her by you on several occasions (including on the phone and sitting in her living room). Along with her being excluded (left out on purpose) by you (President of Mason County GOP) on texts, emails, etc regarding GOP information, news, events, etc.”

Frame, who emphasized that his concerns stem from a desire for accountability rather than disappointment over the election result, urged Sheppeck to address the matter publicly. He encouraged the chairman to share the email widely and offered his cellphone number for any questions from voters or party members.

“The voters of Mason County deserve to know the truth/facts and as a potential leader of this great county I’m sure you would agree with that as well… You are going to explain it.”

This outlet can confirm that the email appears to be genuine. The recipient address appearing in the email match the official contact email listed for Jason Sheppeck in Mason County candidate filings for the 2026 election cycle.

Sheppeck, who serves as Chairman of the Mason County Republican Party, won the Republican primary for District 2 Commissioner on May 19, 2026, defeating challengers; Germantown Mayor, Dwayne Sharp, Larry “Speedy” Fetters, and Peggy Frame, a veteran public servant who ultimately failed to claim a re-election victory according to Charlie Frame.

At the time of this report, neither Jason Sheppeck nor Peggy Frame has responded to our request for comment.

Mason County’s General Election will be held on November 3. For voter information, polling locations, and election updates, visit: masoncountyclerk.ky.gov

With strong local turnout of 30.4% reported across the county, residents weighed in on key races for state and local offices.

Below are the official results.

Maysville City Commission Results

1. Victor McKay: 883

2. Laron Washington: 780

3. Tommy Marshall: 674

4. Kirby Bennett: 667

5. David Cartmell: 649

6. David Irwin: 618

7. Rick Lawrence: 615

8. Ann Branmer: 595

9. David Doyle: 422

10. John Meng: 403

11. Steve Chandler: 324

12. Brey Foster: 264

Mason County Judge Executive

Republican Slate

Eric Bach: 1,099 (55.5%)

Max Moran: 436 (22.2%)

Peggy Frame: 436 (22.2%)

Mason County Commissioner District 1

Republican Slate

Glenny Riggs: 984 (58.7%)

Paula Cokonougher: 691 (41.2%)

Democratic Slate

Rebecca Cartmell: 1,157 (69.3%)

Noah Kalb: 511 (30.6%)

Mason County Commissioner District 2

Republican Slate

Jason Sheppeck: 1,038 (54.8%)

Dwayne Sharp: 509 (26.9%)

Larry Fetters: 345 (18.2%)

Democratic Slate

Henry Boone: 853 (52.3%)

Janet Garrison: 778 (47.7%)

Constable 2nd District

Joe Collins: 563 (71.4%)

James Conley: 225 (28.5%)

State Representative 70th District

Republican Slate

Mike Fisher: 3,020 (57.8%)

Travis Huber: 2,196 (42.1%)

U.S. Senator

Republican Slate

Andy Barr: 1,133 (58.7%)

Daniel Cameron: 624 (32.3%)

Democratic Slate

Amy McGrath: (42.2%)

Charles Booker: 629 (40.7%)

U.S. Congressional 4th District Representative

Republican Slate

Thomas Massie: 1,034 (50.8%)

Ed Gallerin: 1,001 (49.1%)

Democratic Slate

Melissa Strange: 848 (64.9%)

Jesse Brewer: 458 (35.07%)

Maysville City Commission At-Large

This multi-candidate race shows a tight field at the top:

• David Irwin: 20.0%

• Rick Lawrence: 20.0%

• Brey Foster: 20.0%

• Steve Chandler: 20.0%

• Tommy Marshall: 20.0%

• David Cartmell: 0.0%

• Laron Washington: 0.0%

• Ann Brammer: 0.0%

• Kirby Bennett: 0.0%

• David Doyle: 0.0%

• John Meng: 0.0%

• Victor Mckay: 0.0%

Several other candidates — including Ann Brammer, David Cartmell, David Doyle, John Meng, Kirby Bennett, Laron Washington, and Victor — are currently polling at 0.0%.

The even split among the top five candidates suggests a highly competitive at-large race for the city commission seats.

Mason County Judge Executive

Republican Slate

• Max Moran: 66.7%

• Eric Bach: 33.3%

• Peggy Frame: 0.0%

Democratic Slate

Owen McNeil: (Running unopposed)

Mason County Commission District 1

Democratic Slate

• Rebecca Cartmell: 100.0%

• Noah Kalb: 0.0%

Republican Slate

• Glenny Riggs: 100.0%

• Paula Cokonougher: 0.0%

Rebecca Cartmell and Republican candidate Glenny Riggs have garnered unanimous support in this polling update, indicating minimal opposition from their opponents in District 1.

Mason County Commission District 2

Two separate snapshots appear for District 2:

Republican Slate

•  Jason Sheppeck: 66.7%

•  Dwayne Sharp: 33.3%

•  Larry Fetters: 0.0%

Democratic Slate

•  Janet Garrison: 100.0%

•  Henry Boone: 0.0%

This indicates strong support for the leading candidate(s) in the district, with one contender pulling away decisively in the latest view.

Kentucky State House District 70

Republican Slate

• Travis Huber: 75.0%

• Mike Fisher: 25.0%

• Greg Toller: 0.0%

Democratic Slate

• Charlotte Harris: (Running unopposed)

State Representative Candidate Travis Huber maintains a strong lead in this district race, holding a solid three-to-one advantage over his nearest challenger.

Charlotte Harris the democratic nominee is running unopposed in her party.

Notes on the Data

These percentages are dynamic and based on Activote users in the relevant areas. They represent a snapshot in time and can shift as more voters participate or as the election date approaches. The May 19, 2026 election will determine the final outcomes for these city, county, and state legislative positions.

Activote continues to provide real-time polling insights for these and other Kentucky races. Local voters are encouraged to check the app or official sources for the most current numbers and election details.

The event, aimed at empowering the local community, will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Kenton Stories with Spirit, located at 11 W 2nd St in Maysville. Attendees are invited to enjoy coffee, share ideas, and discuss issues affecting the community with the candidates.

“This is a FREE event,” the organizers emphasize. “The only cost to you is your beverages and your time.”

A second candidate, Brey Foster who is running for Maysville City Commission, will also participate. The gathering is designed to foster open dialogue, idea-sharing, and collaborative planning to address local concerns.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP at www.breyforcitycommission.com/events. More information about the community event is available on their website.

The event, co-hosted by the Maysville Area Chamber of Commerce, The Ledger Independent, and Soft 96 (WFTM-Maysville), featured a structured lineup of races with each candidate receiving two minutes for an introduction and two minutes to answer voter-submitted questions.

Travis Skaggs and Drew Spangler from WFTM moderated the forum and posed tough questions to the candidates.

Who Attended

City Commissioner candidates in attendance included:

Brey Foster, David Irwin, Tommy Marshall Jr., David Cartmell, Rick Lawrence, Steve Chandler, David Doyle, Ann Brammer, Kirby Bennett, Laron Washington, and Victor McKay. John Meng was not in attendance.

County Commissioner candidates turned out strongly. For District 2, Republicans Dwayne Sharp, Jason Sheppeck, and Larry Fetters participated, along with Democrat Janet Garrison. Democrat Henry Clay Boone was absent. For District 1, Republicans Glenny Riggs Jr. and Paula Cokonougher, and Democrats Noah Kalb and Rebecca Cartmell were present.

Judge Executive candidates included Republicans Peggy Frame, Max Moran, and Eric Bach.

State Representative candidates Travis Huber and Mike Fisher (both Republicans) attended, along with Republican Constable candidates Joe Collins and James Conley.

Candidate Priorities and Responses

The forum gave voters a clear window into the priorities of those seeking office. When asked what they saw as the biggest challenges facing the community right now and how they would address them if elected, the majority of candidates pointed to infrastructure — citing needs such as road and bridge repairs, water and sewer improvements, and overall community maintenance.

Brey Foster, however, offered a notably different response, focusing instead on homelessness.

“What I see as the biggest challenge in our community right now is the homeless,” Foster said. “What are we doing for our people who are unhoused?”

She outlined a collaborative approach centered on strengthening partnerships with existing organizations such as the Welcome House and the Buffalo Homeless Coalition. Foster emphasized practical solutions that connect individuals to housing resources, mental health services, and job support, while stressing that the issue requires both compassion and responsibility. She highlighted her experience with the Municipal Human Rights Commission as valuable preparation for building these relationships.

View our series of each of the candidates' response to WFTM’s and the Ledger Independent's questionnaire: here

A questionnaire circulated by the Facebook group Solar in Buffalo Trace Area asked candidates across multiple races to clarify their positions on two critical land-use issues: utility-scale solar development and broader economic development strategy. The results, now published online, reveal a noticeable divide in responsiveness.

A Clear Participation Gap

According to the published data, a strong majority of Democratic candidates responded to the questionnaire, while less than half of Republican candidates did. A related summary circulating on social media reported:

• 86% of Democratic candidates responded

• 42% of Republican candidates responded

While not every race followed the same pattern, the overall trend suggests a significant gap in candidate engagement.

Who Responded—and Who Didn’t

The response chart spans several key races, including:

• Maysville City Commission

• Maysville Mayor

• Mason County Commissioner (Districts 1–3)

• Mason County Judge Executive

• Kentucky State Representative (District 70)

Some races show near-complete participation, while others reveal multiple candidates declining or failing to respond.

Maysville City Commission

• Responded: Brey Foster, Victor McKay, Rick Lawrence, Tommy Marshall, Steve Chandler, Kirby Bennett, Laron Washington

• Did not Respond: Ann Brammer, John Meng, David Irwin, David Cartmell, David Doyle

Maysville Mayor

• Responded: Debra Cotterill, Robert Boone

Mason County Commissioner District 1

• Responded: Rebecca Cartmell, Noah Kalb, Paula Cokonougher

• Did not Respond: Glenny Riggs Jr.

District 2

• Responded: Janet Garrison, Larry Fetters, Dwayne Sharp

• Did not Respond: Jason Sheppeck, Henry Boone

District 3

• Responded: William Lawrence

Mason County Judge Executive

• Responded: Owen McNeil

• Did not Respond: Max Moran, Peggy Frame, Eric Bach

Kentucky State Representative District 70

• Responded: Charlotte Harris, Travis Huber

• Did not Respond: Mike Fisher

This uneven participation cuts across both partisan and nonpartisan races, though the partisan breakdown remains notable.

Why It Matters

The questionnaire focuses on issues that are rapidly becoming central to Mason County’s future: land use, solar energy, and large-scale development projects.

These issues are not theoretical. The county is actively debating major proposals—including a potential hyperscale data center expected to reshape the local economy and landscape. Supporters point to job creation and economic growth, while critics raise concerns about farmland loss, environmental impact, and transparency in negotiations.

Solar development is part of that same broader conversation. Advocates argue it could bring long-term tax revenue, reduce agricultural runoff, and help stabilize the local economy.

Opponents, meanwhile, worry about land use changes, community impact, and long-term consequences for rural character.

Transparency as a Campaign Issue

Beyond policy positions, the response data is fueling a larger debate: Do voters have a right to know where candidates stand before Election Day?

Organizers behind the questionnaire argue that answering basic policy questions is part of democratic accountability. In their view, candidates who decline to respond are still communicating something—just not directly.

As one summary post put it, candidates who don’t engage may be “telling us something about how they view the voters they hope to represent.”

The Bottom Line

With early voting approaching, Mason County voters are facing more than a choice between candidates—they’re choosing between different levels of openness.

In a political environment shaped by high-stakes development decisions, the question is becoming just as important as the answers:

Who is willing to go on record—and who isn’t?

Want to read every candidate’s answer to the organizers questionnaire? View their website at solarformasoncounty.com

During a special meeting held Wednesday evening, April 22, 2026, at the Mason County Public Library, commissioners unanimously approved the plans with a key condition: the option to extend an existing berm along Germantown Road if deemed necessary to mitigate impacts.

The meeting concluded quickly, which surprised few attendees. Residents expressed disappointment over the limited discussion prior to the vote, arguing that more thorough deliberation was needed on potential long-term effects.

One resident, Max Moran, drew comparisons to experiences in northern Virginia, where rapid data center expansion led to later regrets and corrective measures due to insufficient early regulations. “In my opinion, the regulations that this body and the county court has done is really mirroring what’s happened in northern Virginia,” Moran stated.

He emphasized that ongoing legal action by residents is not intended to halt the project entirely, but rather to ensure adequate safeguards are in place. “Our lawsuit was never about saying no; it was about trying to do good regulations,” Moran added.

Even with the approval moving forward, community members are advocating for consideration of alternative sites and stronger protections that balance economic benefits with community interests. Moran noted that while the project could potentially fit in the area under proper oversight, the location and regulations must prioritize resident well-being.

Commissioners stressed during the meeting that the approved plans remain preliminary. Developers can make adjustments as long as they comply with existing and future regulations.

The proposal involves a large-scale data center development on land in Mason County near Maysville, part of broader efforts in the region to accommodate growing demand for such facilities, often tied to artificial intelligence and technology infrastructure needs. Earlier steps included rezoning considerations and public hearings that drew significant community input.

This development comes as data centers continue to proliferate across the United States, raising debates about economic growth, infrastructure strain, noise, visual impacts, and effects on nearby residential areas.

Residents plan to monitor the next stages closely as the project advances toward potential final approvals by the Mason County Fiscal Court.

Hosted by the Wild Bull and Maysville City Commission Candidate Brey Foster, the event marks the semi-official kickoff for the venue and is being promoted as more than just a political gathering—but a community-centered night of connection, entertainment, and vision for the city’s future. According to event listings, the free event begins at 6:00 p.m. and will feature live music, guest speakers, delicious food from Lil Jumbo, a fully stocked cash bar provided by DeSah’s, and local engagement opportunities.

What’s drawing particular attention, however, is the expected attendance of current and aspiring public officials. Robert Boone, who currently serves on the Maysville City Commission, is expected to be in attendance, signaling interest from sitting leadership in the event’s message and momentum.

Also expected to attend is Travis Huber, who is running for State Representative. His presence adds a broader regional political dimension, highlighting how local races in Maysville may intersect with wider state-level efforts.

The event is being framed as a launchpad for “fresh leadership, perspectives, and integrity,” with organizers emphasizing the importance of rebuilding and strengthening Maysville through community involvement and new ideas.

With over 70 people already showing interest online and attendance expected from both voters and political figures, the gathering could serve as an early indicator of shifting energy in local politics ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Residents are encouraged to attend, meet candidates and officials face-to-face, and take part in shaping the next chapter of Maysville’s leadership.

For more information and to RSVP visit their site at: www.breyforcitycommission.com/events

The April 1, 2026, “Resident Notice Update” from DPD Property Management, LLC revises an earlier March 28 communication. It credits Mason County Judge Executive Owen McNeill for negotiating improved terms with the proposed developer. The notice states that the park is under contract for purchase, though a firm closing date has not yet been set.

Details of the Offer

According to the letter:

•  Each tenant present at the time of the property closing will receive $50,000, held in escrow until the sale closes.

•  Option A: If a resident moves their mobile home out of the park, the escrow agent will issue a check for $50,000 once removal is complete.

•  Option B: If the home cannot be moved (or the resident chooses to leave it), they can transfer clean title to DPD Property Management, LLC, and receive the $50,000 payment.

•  Option C: Residents will have 90 days from the closing date to vacate the park. The exact closing timeline remains unconfirmed, after which all tenants will receive further notification.

The notice directs questions to Dusty Porter at 859-640-2032 and promises ongoing updates on the sale.

Broader Context: The Data Center Project

The relocation stems from plans by an unnamed Fortune 50 company (widely reported as a major player in artificial intelligence) to develop a hyperscale data center complex spanning over 2,000 acres near Maysville. The project envisions multiple large buildings, significant power infrastructure, and has been promoted for bringing economic benefits, including hundreds of permanent jobs and thousands of construction positions.

Mason County officials, including Judge Executive McNeill, have supported data center-friendly zoning changes in recent months, citing the need for rural economic development. However, the project has sparked controversy:

•  Some local farmers have rejected multimillion-dollar offers (one family reportedly turned down $26 million) to preserve their land.

•  Residents and groups like “We Are Mason County” have raised concerns about noise, water usage, environmental impact, traffic, and the secretive nature of early negotiations (including non-disclosure agreements).

•  Public hearings have drawn strong opposition, with threats of legal action to block or modify the development.

Meadowland Village is home to approximately 28 households, many consisting of elderly or disabled residents who may face challenges finding affordable housing alternatives. Local news outlets have highlighted the human impact, with some tenants expressing frustration over the short 90-day vacate window and the disruption to their lives.

Community Reactions

The notice was shared on social media via a “YES Data center- Mason County…” group. Reactions in the broader community have been mixed—some view the $50,000 as helpful compensation, while others argue it falls short given the costs of moving a mobile home, finding new sites, and potential loss of community ties. Nearby landowners have also voiced concerns about the data center’s scale and effects on rural character.

As of early April 2026, the project remains in planning stages, with zoning and permitting processes ongoing. No final closing date for the mobile home park has been announced, and further updates from DPD Property Management or county officials are expected.

This situation reflects a broader national tension between the explosive growth of data centers and the concerns of rural communities facing land-use changes, displacement, and infrastructure strains. Residents of Meadowland Village are advised to review the notice carefully and consult with the provided contact for personalized guidance.

With this addition, Mason County is now home to seven sites on the trail — more than any other community outside of Lexington and Louisville. This distinction underscores the rich layer of African American history preserved right here in our river town and surrounding areas.

Honoring a Remarkable Life

The memorial honors Reverend Elisha W. Green (c. 1810s–1889), a man whose journey from enslavement to spiritual and community leadership left a lasting mark on Kentucky. Born into slavery in Bourbon County, Green grew up on the “Glen Alice” farm outside Maysville in Mason County. He later purchased his own freedom and that of part of his family, became a licensed Baptist preacher in 1845, and helped establish African American Baptist congregations in both Maysville and Paris.

Green believed strongly that freedmen needed to own land for true independence. He partnered with a white landowner to help found an African American community near Paris. He also stayed politically engaged, Until his death in 1889, he remained a dynamic force in the churches he helped build.

The memorial stands at the intersection of Maddox Alley and West Fourth Street in Maysville — the site of the original Bethel Baptist Church, which Green helped found and where he served as pastor for more than 30 years. The church burned in the 1970s, but the location now features a Kentucky Historical Marker (#1962) dedicated to Green as a religious leader. Plans for the full memorial include a life-sized statue of Green holding a Bible in one hand while reaching toward the Ohio River — a powerful symbol of freedom just across the water.

A True Grassroots Effort

This achievement is the result of dedicated local work spanning years. Credit goes especially to Norbert Gallenstein and Buddy Gallenstein, who helped revive and advance the project after noticing the memorial’s base was designed to support a statue. The late Jerry Gore first championed marking the historic church site. Bethel Baptist Church, the Mason County Fiscal Court, and many other community members and organizations rallied behind the effort, making it a genuine grassroots initiative.

In 2024, fundraising efforts advanced with sculptor Sam McKinney (known locally for the buffalo statues at Limestone Park and work on the Market Street Fountain) providing a bid for the statue. The project has now culminated in the site’s recognition on the statewide trail.

Mason County’s Prominent Place on the Trail

Mason County’s seven trail sites include the Elisha Green Memorial alongside other significant locations such as:

•  The Harriet Beecher Stowe Museum / Marshall Key House

•  The National Underground Railroad Museum

•  The Maysville Underground Railroad Tour

•  Sites in Mays Lick, including the Brigadier General Charles Young Birthplace Cabin and Rosenwald School

This concentration makes Mason County a standout destination for those following the trail, which now features more than 50 sites across Kentucky. Visitors can learn about everything from Underground Railroad routes and Civil War-era stories to churches, schools, and community leaders who shaped our shared history.

Governor Beshear’s office has highlighted the trail as a way to celebrate voices too often overlooked while boosting local tourism and education. The Elisha Green Memorial perfectly embodies that mission — turning a local story of perseverance into part of Kentucky’s broader narrative.

Visit and Reflect

The Elisha Green Memorial site is open to the public and offers a quiet, meaningful place to pause and reflect on Reverend Green’s legacy and the larger history of freedom, faith, and community in Mason County. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, it’s a powerful reminder of the remarkable individuals who called this area home.

As one local leader put it during the planning stages, “He deserves it and the community deserves it.”

Mason County can take pride in this grassroots success and in the way our small community continues to preserve and share authentic history. Stop by the memorial, explore the other trail sites, and discover why there’s so much to celebrate right here at home.

For more information on Kentucky’s African American Heritage Trail, visit kentuckytourism.com/aaht. Details about Reverend Elisha Green and the memorial can be found through local historical resources and the Kentucky Historical Society marker page.