This very simple survey tells a clear story. Here in San Cristobal:

• EVERY HOUSEHOLD (100%) has the capacity to reliably make and receive calls. Residents use a variety of methods that work for them. Most have some degree of redundancy. 

• NEARLY EVERY HOUSEHOLD (94%) has internet access. Those who do not, do so by choice, and could easily be connected. By far the majority use reliable high speed connections from Kit Carson Telecomm or Taos Net. Additionally, free 24/7 internet access is available inside and in the parking lot of the community center.

• NEARLY EVERY HOUSEHOLD (94%) uses one or more cell phone(s). Most subscribe to Verizon, followed by T-Mobile, ATT, and various other smaller companies.

• MOST HOUSEHOLDS (84%) can make and receive cellular calls from their home. Even though ATT has the most comprehensive coverage (100% of the community receives 4G signal), residents with other providers report greatly improved coverage within the last four to six months. Many report that they can make continuous calls from Taos to their homes.

• A FEW HOUSEHOLDS use legacy land lines serviced through Century Link. These mostly elderly residents do not want internet or cell phones. Still, for future protection, providing an internet-connected conventional phone could provide additional security. Fortunately, all these households are located in areas where wired internet is readily available. 

• 911/SOS CALLS ARE PRIORITIZED regardless of carrier, and such calls will route through whatever cell signal is strongest (currently ATT with 100% coverage).

• Please join us on Wednesday, 10/8, at the San Cristobal Community Center to discuss results and next steps.