The California Public Utilities Commission met in Oroville today for public workshop to discuss ways to improve internet service to the area.

The problem comes down to poor infrastructure - the copper wires that allow broadband connection are corroded enough in some places that local businesses have daily service interruptions.

But, there are a variety of grant programs now available to help facilitate new and better connections.

Commercial businesses in Oroville spend thousands of dollars a month to supplement their service, but today, many business owners said they're worried they're losing customers and revenue because of the faulty connections.

And, poor service can be a big problem when it comes to public safety.

"The first thing that goes down in a fire or flood is the cell phone system, its because it's a high and low and the river gets plugged up real quick," said former Oroville Fire Chief Dave Pittman.

There's a large commercial zone in Oroville that has an inadequate connection - spanning from the airport to the south side of town.

Representatives from several major providers were present is the talks and invited to consider improving their service to the community.