The Cadiz City Council unanimously approved a 90-day trial of wireless Internet services downtown Tuesday, July 5. The technology is hardly being welcomed with open arms, however, as several members voiced concerns over cost, security and fairness.

Councilwoman Donna McNichols announced that an anonymous merchant had agreed to foot the $3,000 bill for installation of Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) hardware — two shoebox-lid sized panels that would broadcast Internet signals.

Paul Fourshee — who researched the technology as a member of the Cadiz Retail Task Force — said the panels are made to resemble bricks or other building supplies, and mount flat on a wall, projecting a signal with a 350-foot radius.

The technology is being aimed at Renaissance Square and the Courthouse area.

Councilwoman McNichols said a Louisville-based company was offering a free 90-day trial period for the service.

“Do you have somebody to pay the bill monthly?” Councilman Jim Ricks said. “My Internet is rather expensive, is why I [ask] that.”

“I have reservations if we have to pay anything,” Councilwoman Susan Bryant, who does not own a computer, said.

For the rest of this story, please see this week's edition of The Cadiz Record.