Rural Humboldt Phone Service Subject of Possible $10 Billion Deal, Public Input Wanted

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is seeking public input on a proposed purchase of Verizon phone lines by Frontier in a 10 billion dollar deal.  Here’s a post by KMUD on the situation followed by a press release from Humboldt County government.

Press release provided by Humboldt County:

CPUC Public Participation Hearing
July 6 – 6:30 p.m.
Benbow Historic Inn, Village Hall
445 Lake Benbow Dr.
Garberville, CA 95542

Verizon Customers for Sale?
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Needs To Hear From You!

The CPUC will hold Public Participation hearings to collect input from Verizon Customers regarding the sale of Verizon services to Frontier Communications.

Early this year, Frontier Communications agreed to buy all Verizon’s local wireline operations, including landline phone service, Internet and Fios Video Service in California. This does not include Verizon wireless cell phone customers. Before the sale can go through, the CPUC needs to approve the deal.

This is your opportunity to speak up and make your voice heard!

What are the plans to upgrade and expand high-speed broadband?
The copper network has been neglected, what are Frontiers plans to ensure high quality and reliable services?
What happens during a power outage in your community?
What improvements need to be made before a sale is approved?
What kind of back-up power or generators exits to ensure emergency communications? What improvements are needed?
What experiences have you had in emergency situations with your current phone, internet or FIOS video service?
How can broadband services reach residents living in areas where no broadband service is available?

Speak Out at the July 6
CPUC Public Participation Hearing