Area code change has people talking
By Joann Groff joann@theacorn.com

Residents of Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Oak Park and elsewhere in the current 818 area code region offered different preferences in a discussion on how to address the looming shortage of 818 code numbers.

In its third of five public meetings with residents with an 818 area code, the California Public Utilities Commission met with a group of about 30 people to get feedback on how to handle the phone number squeeze.

The first option suggested would split the present 818 area in half. One half would keep the 818 area code and the other would change to a new 747 code. It is not clear whether Calabasas would retain the 818, but when a similar situation arose in 1999, the city was in the 747 section of the map. This time, the city chose to recommend a split only if Calabasas retains the 818 code (see sidebar).

The alternative, an overlay, would allow current 818 customers to keep their numbers while new customers would be assigned to the 747. Calls within the area would require dialing 11 digits: 1 plus the area code and the phone number.

Joe Cocke, an area code relief specialist who spoke with the CPUC at the Oct. 23 hearing, reminded the group that having to dial the area code first would not affect related charges.

"What was a local, remains a local call, no matter how many numbers are dialed," Cocke said. He added that by the third quarter of 2009 numbers in the 818 code will be exhausted.

David Murphy, public affairs manager of the Valley Industry and Commerce Association, spoke on behalf of the businesses VICA represents.

"I don't think (a split) would be something that our small or large business would appreciate," Murphy said of the costs of changing letterheads, business cards, signs and other information if area codes were changed.

Many speakers agreed, pointing out that speed dialing and saving numbers in cellphones could help the aggravation of having to frequently dial 11 numbers. Small business owners also stressed that some associated costs would be tough to handle.

Others said they preferred to change their numbers if necessary instead of having to dial so many digits.

"Changing your number is a pain," said Sue Alexander. "But then it's over. It's a onetime annoyance while the other is permanent. I know businesses will have to change everything, but it can be done."

A small group of telephone service providers were on hand, and Joanne Edelman with Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile offered the companies' position.

"The telecommunications industry unanimously decided on an overlay," Edelman said. "We feel the overlay minimized the impact on residents, allowing them to keep their phone numbers. California is a progressive state. People can adapt easily to the 1plus10digit dialing. It's the simplest and most equitable form of relief."

Those who wish to offer complaints or comments can e-mail public.advisor.la@cpuc.ca.gov, or visit www.cpuc.ca.gov/ 818areacode.

Also, letters may be sent to CPUC Public Advisor, 320 W. Fourth St., Ste. 500, Los Angeles, CA 90013.