5-31-13
The receiver of these two NALs is Pittman Broadcasting, operator of six stations in Louisiana. The menu of infractions listed by the commission ranges from failing to maintain an EAS system, operating at the wrong power, a dirty antenna structure, and poor lighting on the antenna. On failing to maintain an operational EAS system, the commission was very detailed. "As the nation?s emergency warning system, the EAS is critical to public safety, and we recognize the vital role that broadcasters play in ensuring its success. The Commission takes seriously any violations of the rules implementing the EAS and expects full compliance from its licensees."
In the first Notice of Apparent Liability, Pttman's KVOL-AM in Lafayette failed to maintain operational EAS equipment and logs, and operate the station within authorized power limitations. That cost the station $15,000. The base fines were $8K for the EAS equipment, $4K for exceeding power limits. However the commission was in the mood to round up. "Pittman?s prior overpower operations warrants an upward adjustment of $2,000. Furthermore, we find that Pittman?s failure to maintain any EAS logs warrants an upward adjustment of $1,000."
In NAL number two Pittman's WUUU-FM in Franklinton, Louisiana, also failed to maintain an operational EAS system, according to the commission. On top of that they were nailed for failing to clean or repaint the antenna structure as often as necessary to maintain good visibility and exhibit required antenna structure lighting. That cost the station $22,500.
The grand total for the company: $37,500.
