Fremont City Council members on Tuesday will discuss the approval of a study about data centers. While paying for studies, to some, seems to be a waste of funds, this will be money well spent.
Think about it. It could cost $3 million to $5 million to upgrade the city’s technology infrastructure to even have a chance to land a data center. It seems logical to spend between 1 percent and 2 percent of that total -- $50,000 to $100,000 -- to determine if we would be competitive with other markets. About half of that money would come from the state through Community Development Block Grant funds.
There is a lot of buzz about data centers in economic development circles these days. Having an objective, independent look at what Fremont could offer is an essential step before moving forward.

It’s that time of year again. You know, when you come up with a list of resolutions that you plan to accomplish in the next year. I’ve never been one to write down a list. Besides, like most people, I know I need to drop a few pounds, lead a healthier lifestyle and save more money.
That leaves me with resolutions for work. In 2009, I resolve to:
* Ask more questions, especially of those who we have elected to represent us. I, like many, often don’t ask enough questions about why certain actions are taking place.
* Seek out a wider variety of input. I have my circle of friends. And I have a few “go-to” people that I discuss issues with. During the next year I will strive to include more people in those discussions.
* Share my thoughts more. I’ve never been all that comfortable with this blogging stuff, most of you already can tell from the infrequent updates. This year I’ll make a better effort to blog more. Really.
So, now that I’ve shared my resolutions. How about yours?

As the 2008 campaign season was drawing to a close, the number of negative, attack advertisements from a host of candidates increased. There are plenty of people -- myself included -- who are turned off by these types of advertising. I can’t speak for others, but I find them to be hateful and full of half truths.

I’m confused by those who cry foul about this type of advertising, but have no problem using the same attack mentality on Web comments and letters to the editor. You only need to browse through comments on this Web site to see examples that are far worse than any political campaign sent out.

Sure, we will continue to post comments that included negativity. We also will continue to reject comments that appear to be attacks on others who make comments. But trying thinking about this before typing: Would I say that to my mother? If not, maybe the comment shouldn’t be made.

I’ve read a lot of comments recently about efforts to revitalize downtown Fremont. One of the city council’s committees recently agreed to spend money to fund a study on returning to two-way streets downtown. Fremont’s budget also has about $550,000 set aside for downtown improvements.
Many of those who comment suggest using tax money for downtown improvements is a handout to business owners. Some even suggest the money is going directly into the pockets of business owners.
What a crock.
Yes, downtown businesses may benefit from two-way streets and better sidewalks and lighting. If they do, that means more sales tax dollars for the city, which could be used to fix streets in other parts of the city or hire additional police officers or firefighters.
But to suggest business owners are lining up to collect a government check is simply wrong. Downtown businesses provide jobs for many people and sales tax revenue for the city. In return, they get little support from Fremont’s city government. It is past the time for Fremont to invest in its downtown.

Two downtown Fremont bars aren’t waiting until next June to prepare for smoke-free environments. Both the Corner Bar and Doe’s Place are planning to have beer gardens attached to their establishments so patrons can continue to smoke while having a cold one. I’m not sure what those beer gardens will feel like on a January night, but at least customers still have that option.
I don’t smoke, and I prefer going to places that are smoke free. But I also prefer government place as few regulations as necessary on businesses. While I’ll enjoy the smoke-free environments, I still think it should be a business owner’s decision.
Still, I think it’s good that at least two businesses are thinking ahead.