A Del Norte County resident told the Board of Supervisors that cell‑phone coverage in parts of District 4 has deteriorated to the point that residents cannot reliably make calls, and asked the board to press carriers and provide a public update.

The commenter said fiber‑optic changes to a landline had left them without practical telephony and that tower buildouts discussed previously have not improved service. “I have changed cell phone services twice now with no noticeable improvement,” the resident said, and asked that the county speed up the process of getting improved coverage.

Why it matters: Reliable cellular service is critical for emergency communications and daily life in rural areas. Residents noted concerns about emergency response and the possibility someone could be harmed if they could not summon help.

Board response: Supervisors asked county staff to check permit status and negotiations with carriers. One supervisor noted that a tower is under construction in Smith River and another site remains under contract negotiation; staff said planning had not yet received permits for the disputed location. Supervisors asked county counsel and the CAO to provide a written update that can be shared with constituents.

Next steps: County staff said they would provide the resident and the board with updates from the county attorney and planning department about permit activity and contract negotiation status. The board did not adopt a directive ordering carriers to act, but asked staff to make the information public and, if appropriate, return to the board with recommended next steps.

Ending: The board agreed to post a public update on the status of tower builds and permit activity once county counsel and planning have compiled current information.