Priorities: Economic Development

By Robert "Bob" Wieckowski

Without well paying jobs and new businesses that add to the organic vitality of Fremont, we will become a stagnant, undesirable place to live.

Every authoritative study that I have seen over the last 4 years, underscores the need for Silicon Valley to provide housing that people can live in that's close to their jobs. Historically, and certainly during most of my lifetime, Fremont has shouldered more than its share of that burden, by being an affordable, desirable place to live in the Bay Area. Unfortunately, Fremont no longer has the opportunities for affordable housing that existed when my parents first bought their house here and when I bought my house.

I believe the city needs to be the leader in our quest to create more affordable housing units. The City must work with developers as we changing our zoning laws to allow for greater density in our developments, with living units per acre at a price level that working people can afford.

Clearly this is a move away from our nearly exclusive reliance on the construction of new single family residences. But I believe that in the long run, providing safe, well planned alternatives for people who want to live and work in Fremont will make our community a healthier, safer, greener, better place to live. Our community is changing. My parents raised seven children in Fremont. Many families now consist of one child. Our built community must reflect this change.

At the same time, we will be making ourselves more attractive to the clean tech, biotech, and other new business enterprises that want to make Fremont their corporate home. Leadership by our Council and by others in government service is essential to create a robust partnership with the people and businesses of Fremont. Together we can make development plans that are smart, livable, and workable.