Before it grants the renewal of an AM station’s license in the Mississippi Delta, the FCC has entered into a consent decree with the owner of the station, which includes a voluntary contribution of U.S. $1,000 to the Department of Treasury, following several rules violations.
960 WABG(AM), “The Awesome AM,” in Greenwood runs 1 kW during the day from one tower and 500 watts at night from three towers. Bennie Wells is the station owner, listed officially under SPB LLC.
WABG filed for its license renewal in 2020. Following its application, one individual filed a petition to deny — which the FCC ultimately considered an informal objection — and another person also filed an objection.
The contentions centered on a transfer of control of the station back in 2015 that both parties argued WABG did not properly document with the commission.
After reviewing the case, the commission did find that an unauthorized transfer of control occurred when the interests of WABG’s two other members were acquired by Wells without prior approval.
It also found that WABG violated rules by failing to upload quarterly issues/programs lists in 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2017.
WABG also falsely certified on its renewal that it complied with public inspection file and biennial ownership reporting requirements, according to the commission.
As a result, the FCC and WABG have entered into a consent decree under which the station agrees to implement a compliance plan to ensure the station and staff follows the commission’s rules.
WABG will also make the voluntary contribution of $1,000 to the Department of the Treasury.
If the contribution is paid and the Media Bureau finds no other violations, the FCC said it will grant WABG’s license renewal.
WABG runs a Mississippi Delta blues and classic rock music format.
