Charter Communications opened up a line of communication with Selmians who wanted to voice their concerns about the company’s services. Thursday’s public hearing became a platform for just that.

Issues were thrown from left to right, as citizens told Charter Communications Manager of Government Affairs Taylor Vice everything wrong with their services. Residents complained of downed cable lines, connection issues, and having to pay for services and channels they don’t utilize.

In addition, some mentioned the increasing costs of undesired rates. Some audience members even suggested boycotting the company.

Individuals with complaints were asked to leave their phone numbers and addresses with Vice, so he can relay the messages to his supervisors.

“It’s a case by case basis,” Vice said. “We will have someone reach out to every single person that leaves their numbers with me.”

Selma resident Nancy Bennett was concerned about the hours and timeframes it takes to get her services fixed. She questioned why people would have to take time off from work to wait on a technician to deliver services.

“I think that’s patently unfair because people are not able to take off work a lot of times,” Bennett said.

Mayor George Evans also gave his thoughts about the cable provider. He said the prices are ridiculous, and some citizens can’t afford them because of their incomes. Evans also saw Charter as an overwhelming force.

“This is a monopoly,” he said. “Nobody is going to compete with Charter. Right now they (Charter) know that. That’s why they continue to do what they do because they know they can. I think we (Selma) deserve better.”

City Council President Corey Bowie said the meeting went well.

“The meeting was very engaging and informational,” Bowie said. “Citizens had a chance to express their concerns with Charter Communications.”

When Vice returns to Selma with answers Bowie said another meeting will be scheduled before the council makes any further decisions. He said the council will deliberate about issues addressed at the meeting.

Bowie said he will try to urge more Charter representatives to speak with citizens.