I know, sometimes I don't say anything for weeks and then I say a lot all at once. As I said, I've started asking the mayoral candidates for their current positions on public broadband. So far I've asked, Garrett O'Brien, Michael Lilliquist, April Barker (noted CenturyLink Supporter), and Pinky Vargas (noted PSE supporter, this matters because PSE benefits from 5G small cell installations by big telecoms.) I will post their replies as they come in and contact candidates as they make themselves known.

Garrett O'Brien not only met with me, but committed to meeting with at least one other public fiber pro. His response is not a total commitment, but is light years ahead of the others so far. His response is below. Still, you have to keep in mind that the big telecoms, with their direct line to a big portion of our councils, and public works, will contact him too and lie to him. 

"Good morning Jon,

I have been thinking about our discussion on fiber options in Bellingham as I have been meeting with businesses and people in the community. I am finding that a lot of what you said makes sense and I wanted to shoot you my thoughts before the campaign takes more of my time (I am already having a hard time responding to emails and phone calls).

I agree with you that small internet based businesses present a tremendous growth opportunity for our city. I agree that access to fiber is not a barrier to large business, but is to small businesses and start ups. I am committed to reducing barriers.

I have a lot of folks asking me for positions and commitments on a variety of issues and I am going to be careful about the commitments I make, because I intend to keep them.

Here is what I will commit to you regarding fiber and dig once:

I will continue to learn about this 
I will support your community building efforts, and ensure your positions are considered in policy making.
When we identify solutions – we will act

Jon, this may sound a bit vague and I know you have been working on this for many years, but at this point until I get more facts and better access to public works and long term capital facilities planning I can't make an informed policy decision. 

I am committed to fostering vibrancy in our community and better access to high quality and affordable fiber is a part of that. I will work on this.

Have a good day,
Garrett O'Brien"