The Free-Net also looks to a bright future filled with possibilities.  Currently, the Internet faces several serious public issues - issues that cannot be effectively addressed by governments, organizations, individuals or businesses due to the very nature of the Internet.  These issues include:

• Easy access to offensive material on the Internet by impressionable audiences.
• A lack of a home or base location for users to easily access local informational and interactive sources.
• Few areas for users to interact with and share ideas with local residents about local issues and activities.
• An inability for local businesses and organizations to advertise effectively toward local audiences on the Internet.
• Few organizations providing information online due to the high cost associated with Internet site development.

• Provides youth with online, interactive services while offering parents peace of mind about what materials their children will be able to access.
• Is currently the home for over 5,000 users with the future ability of becoming "The Online Main Street" for Battle Creek Internet users.
• Offers an area for residents to share ideas about local issues and activities.
• Provides a place where organizations and businesses can "advertise" their services in a truly cost-effective manner.
• Acts as a low cost gateway for organizations who want to go online.

• The need for ongoing (and sometimes expensive) technological support.
• An increased need for experienced, trained and dedicated staff members.
• An inability to budget for programmed technological updates due to a lack of consistent cash flow.
• A lack of marketing support to communicate the potential benefits to key organizations and individuals.
• Limitations of the current technology platform and an inability to afford to consider new technological platforms.