UCM’s KTBG to Be Purchased By Kansas City Public Television.

Improved! Better Than Before!

The UNIV. OF CENTRAL MISSOURI WARRENSBURG and KANSAS CITY PUBLIC TELEVISION announced TODAY (4/19) the intention to transfer ownership of UCM’s public station KTBG (90.9) to KCPT.  The letter of intent permitting the acquisition of UCM’s campus-based radio station was signed APRIL 18th by the UCM Board of Governors.

"This is a decision that was made after carefully considering our overall mission and the university’s recent academic and administrative reviews," said UCM Pres. CHARLES AMBROSE.  "The university is very pleased with the overall agreement with KANSAS CITY PUBLIC TELEVISION.  In conjunction with transferring ownership of KTBG, we are also establishing an exciting, multi-dimensional relationship with KCPT and the KANSAS CITY community, which will greatly benefit both parties."

"This is an incredible opportunity for KCPT to extend its reach into the community and develop new relationships with our public media partners in WARRENSBURG," said KCPT CEO/President KLIFF KUEHL.  "KTBG has developed a strong following of listeners with an exceptional programming line-up of music and local services.  We're thrilled to be able to share this community asset with an even greater audience in the KANSAS CITY region."

The transfer of ownership is pending FCC approval. Through the transaction with UCM, KCPT is purchasing the rights to operate on the  frequency.  Additionally, KCPT’s purchase will include transmission equipment, the call letters KTBG, and any URL’s associated with the station.

The format will remain largely the same.  KCPT will discontinue the news and talk content and UCM sports programming.  KCPT will continue the station’s current Triple A music format and increase local segments covering non-profits, arts and culture events, and other stories of interest to the KTBG listeners.

KCPT will also be improving the signal strength of KTBG  following FCC approval.  The upgraded station’s signal will increase to include not only the current coverage area, but also the greater KANSAS CITY metro area.

KCPT is using a combination of a loan, new donor and philanthropic gifts, and unrestricted KCPT reserve funds to acquire and upgrade KTBG.  KCPT’s budget is $1.7 million, which includes purchasing KTBG, upgrading the station’s signal and building radio studios in KCPT’s building.

As a result of the transaction, UCM will receive the following: a $1.1 million payment; $550,000 in promotional underwriting; the establishment of a UCM-KCPT-KTBG internship program for UCM students; and other collaborative initiatives.

Further, ALL ACCESS has just learned that PARAGON MEDIA STRATEGIES' MIKE HENRY will consult the station.

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