Laundry Operators, AI Hub Among Data Center Opportunities

Prospective commercial laundry operators are looking at Olney properties, while a proposed local AI and data storage operation could help businesses serve the anticipated Young County data center development.

Olney Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Tom Parker outlined the opportunities during the board’s Oct. 7 meeting, describing services that could support the development’s construction workforce.

Mr. Parker said two people were looking for space in Olney for commercial laundries that would collect clothing, wash and dry it, and provide folding services by the pound.

He said the county was seeking to have service providers use existing buildings and make capital improvements rather than simply establish operations in trailers on vacant lots.

“None of this is hard or set and nailed down,” Mr. Parker said, emphasizing that the opportunities remained under development.

He also described an AI product developed by Olney resident Andy Jones to assist with data collection, reporting and workflow management.

The proposed system could help coordinate services such as laundry, sanitation and trash hauling, Mr. Parker said. It could also offer local data storage and backup services to businesses and public agencies.

Mr. Jones was expected to present the proposal to OEDC, including a request for repayable startup assistance and space for equipment.

One possible location is the former jail cells behind the vehicle registration office. Mr. Parker said the space could potentially be adapted for secure equipment storage with conditioned electrical power.

Preliminary figures discussed included approximately $4,000 to $6,000 for equipment and additional costs to prepare the space.

OEDC board member Kyle Hinson said existing local fiber and telecommunications infrastructure should be part of the discussion.

Mr. Parker linked the proposals to OEDC’s business lab budget, saying additional opportunities could create demand beyond the $24,000 allocation discussed at the meeting.

The board approved no funding or agreements.