Saga Communications has filed a compelling and detailed complaint with the FCC, alleging a series of technical and ethical issues with a pending LPFM application from Iglesia Cristiana Jehova Vive (ICJV) for WJKM-LP (96.9) in Springfield, MA. This complaint highlights a complex web of potential problems, including technical defects, alleged misrepresentation, and possible ties to a former pirate radio operator.
The heart of the dispute lies in ICJV's application to modify its unbuilt LPFM authorization. Saga argues that the application contains multiple fatal defects, including a failure to demonstrate reasonable access to the proposed transmitter site and conflicting tower information. They also claim that the application doesn't meet FCC rules governing non-adjacent channel changes, and that the proposed channel change would actually worsen interference.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the complaint is the potential link between ICJV and a former pirate radio operator named Jonathan Alcantara. Saga suggests that Alcantara, who has been identified in various FCC filings as an ICJV director or operations manager, may be the same individual who received a pirate warning nearly a decade ago for an unlicensed Spanish-language station in the Wilkes Barre-Scranton market. If this connection is confirmed, it could have significant implications, as FCC rules prohibit LPFM grants to applicants associated with unlicensed broadcasting.
Saga's complaint also raises questions about the identity of ICJV's listed treasurer, Berenisse Figueroa. Figueroa, who was listed in the application as ICJV's treasurer, denied any involvement and stated that someone was using her name without her consent. This raises a serious question of potential misrepresentation to the Commission.
The pattern of ICJV filing modification applications and then withdrawing them after objections are lodged or dismissed by FCC staff is another concern for Saga. They argue that this constitutes an abuse of process, as the minor modification process is not meant for serial testing of proposals or burdening Commission staff and interested parties.
In conclusion, Saga's complaint highlights a complex and potentially troubling situation. The FCC will need to carefully consider the technical and ethical issues raised by Saga, as well as the potential implications of the alleged ties to a former pirate radio operator. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for the LPFM industry and the FCC's regulatory approach to non-profit radio stations.
