Clear Channel Station Fined $10,000 for Tower Painting Violations

The FCC fined Clear Channel $10,000 for not repainting the tower for WOUR(FM), Utica, N.Y.
During an inspection in 2002, a field agent said the paint was chipped and faded, affecting the structure’s visibility. Clear Channel found a painter soon after. The station didn’t dispute the agency’s findings but said the FCC inspection should not have taken place because the station takes part in the state broadcast association’s inspection program. Clear Channel asked for the penalty to be cancelled or reduced.
The commission said its inspection was part of a special tower safety program and not precluded due to the station’s participation in the state broadcast voluntary inspection program; it declined to lower the fine.