FR 2021-02836

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently released a notice concerning proposals to change the community of license for certain AM and FM radio stations. These proposed changes involve radio stations managed by Grundy County Broadcasters, Inc., the University of Florida, and Townsquare Media of Ft. Collins, Inc. The notice invites the public to submit their comments by April 13, 2021, on these proposals, which can significantly alter how local communities receive information and entertainment through radio broadcasts.

General Summary

The document serves as a formal announcement from the FCC. It outlines the intention of three different radio broadcasters to change the location from which they operate their stations. This bureaucratic process aims to reassign radio station licenses from one community to another. It lists the stations involved and provides instructions for obtaining detailed application information online.

Significant Issues or Concerns

There are several notable issues within the document. Firstly, the document does not clarify why each change of community is proposed or how it benefits the public. This lack of transparency could raise concerns about the potential impact on both the originating and receiving communities. Secondly, the document does not include an abstract, which could assist in giving readers a concise overview of its content, improving clarity and understanding. Additionally, the document makes liberal use of technical jargon, such as "Fac. ID No." and "File No.," without offering explanations, which might be challenging for those unfamiliar with FCC processes. Furthermore, the instructions for navigating the FCC’s online databases for additional information are brief and might prove difficult for individuals not accustomed to such systems.

Public Impact

The public could be affected broadly by these changes in several ways. For communities losing a radio station, there could be concerns about a reduction in local programming and community-focused content. Meanwhile, those communities gaining a station may benefit from increased local coverage and potentially more diverse programming options. Such changes in broadcast locations can impact local advertisers, marketers, and listeners who rely on radio as a consistent and influential medium for reaching their audience or staying informed.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

The changes proposed have mixed potential impacts on stakeholders. For the broadcasters involved, the ability to relocate a station might offer opportunities for broader listenership, reduced operational costs, or compliance with strategic business objectives. Conversely, existing advertisers and current listeners in the stations' original locations might face disruptions. Advertisers might lose an important platform for reaching their target market, while listeners might miss out on local content that they find relevant and engaging. For new listeners in the receiving communities, however, these changes could mean access to new content, voices, and perspectives that enrich their listening experience.

In conclusion, while the FCC's notice outlines proposed changes in station locations that could have varied impacts, it crucially leaves several pertinent questions unanswered for the general public. More detailed explanations regarding the changes' rationale and guidance on accessing further information could immensely benefit those directly and indirectly affected by these proposals.