At a public meeting regarding proposals from AT&T to relinquish its status as an eligible telecommunications carrier and to be released from its obligation to provide basic phone service to anyone who asks, the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors chambers, overflow room, and courtyard were filled with concerned residents waiting to hear the presentation and express their concerns. Many attendees were rural residents who rely on landlines when cell service is spotty. During the meeting, it was clear that most in attendance were strongly opposed to the phone company’s requests.