Back in those days local governments tapped the manufacturing base so hard they were not competitive.

When Steve Jobs appeared before the city of Cupertino to pitch Apple's new HQ, one particular exchange with the city council caught our attention.

Councilwoman Kris Wang asked, "Do we get free wifi or something like that?"

The audience laughed at her question, and Jobs responded with, "See, I'm a simpleton, and I've always had this view that we pay taxes and the city should do those things. That's why we pay taxes. Now, if we can get out of paying taxes, I'll be glad to put up wifi."

She then joked that maybe the city could use its tax revenue to buy everyone an iPad, and then Apple would give them free wifi.

Jobs then hinted that maybe he should just take Apple to Mountain View if she was unhappy. He added, "I think we bring a lot more than free wifi."

My question about how residents can benefit from the new campus was primarily meant to be a softball question for Steve to talk more about Apple's long-term relationship with Cupertino and its residents. I was hoping he would talk not only about the fact that they are the city's largest tax payer, but also that Apple reciprocally enjoys calling Cupertino its home, as our city attracts phenomenally talented individuals and families with our vibrant and diverse community, safe neighborhoods, top-notch education districts, and extremely supportive business environment (as evidenced by numerous other tech companies that call Cupertino their home). Believe me, I know how much our residents benefit from having a $300B company in their backyard, but I was hoping to draw out more dialogue on Cupertino and Apple's mutually beneficial relationship.

Steve, in his answer, joked about moving up to Mountain View - Google's hometown where they provide the residents there with free wifi. For some background context, I've joked with Steve in previous conversations (unrelated to Apple's new campus) about Apple doing the same for Cupertino. So, my follow-up was admittedly a flat attempt at going along with the same joke, and Steve replied the same way he did previously to me, which was he believes the city should provide those services. It was intended to be a joke and nothing more.