Rama Communications, which runs WKIQ(AM) in Eustis, Fla., will have to pay $20,000.
Among its violations was not having the ability to turn its transmitter off. It was also cited for failing to maintain proper studio staffing during business hours and not having a complete public inspection file on hand.
The original fine notice was issued in June by the Tampa Office of the Enforcement Bureau, dating to an inspection in 2006. The FCC said the owner did not respond so it now has upheld that fine.
The station was in an LMA with Mary Banks Broadcasting Network at the time of inspection. Agents found that the owner had not installed self-monitoring or automatic transmission systems equipment to control the transmission system. Rama’s chief engineer “stated over the telephone that Rama removed its ATS unit about 2-3 weeks prior to the inspection. Accordingly, personnel located at the main studio could not turn the transmitter off from the main studio.”
The rules require that transmitter control personnel must have the capability to turn the transmitter off at all times.
