Data Center Foes Skip Olney Debate

The Young County runoff debate on April 28 in Olney, Texas, centered largely on the controversial Project Saltworks data center, despite the absence of two candidates who have campaigned on opposing the project. Incumbent County Judge Win Graham and Precinct 4 commissioner candidate Bobby Swetnam faced extensive public questioning, revealing their differing views on the county’s future, particularly regarding large-scale development. Judge Graham, a proponent of the data center, emphasized its potential to dramatically increase the county’s limited tax base. He argued that a "massive $10 billion investment" could generate enough revenue to "eliminate residential county taxes" and fund essential services like expanding the sheriff's department. However, he also acknowledged potential drawbacks such as increased strain on county infrastructure and emergency services. Conversely, Mr. Swetnam took a more cautious stance on the data center, stating he doesn't "want a data center" but would not "have a fit" if it came to fruition. He highlighted the challenges of attracting industry to rural Young County and the reliance on volunteer efforts for emergency services. Both candidates also addressed broader issues like law enforcement funding, with Graham tying it to revenue from industrial development and Swetnam focusing on local economic realities and rising mental health call costs. The debate, which drew a standing-room-only crowd from across Young County, showcased the community's intense interest in the economic and infrastructural impacts of potential large-scale developments. Officials from the City of Olney and other county leaders were present, with some Olney officials having publicly supported industrial projects, including the proposed data center.