The Public File is useless in the eyes of the Public. I've been in radio since 1978 and never had a request to see it except by the visiting FCC Officer. The most frequent problem that results in a fine is typically the programming issues, descriptions of public affairs programs that are typically buried at 6am Sunady morning because listeners don't want to hear it. Ironically few stations allocate hardly any dollars to the production of such a program since it is a ratings killer in almost every market.
I can see having all the technical information, EAS records, applications, licenses and other communications between the FCC and the licensee, but the programming issues seem a bit too much. Some advocates say its needed but I find a market dictates what a station does or does not do better than any regulation.
I hope they get off the hook on this fine, but how many meals must be skipped in order to pay his Washington Broadcast Attorney to get him off?
If anything, his track record, compliance in other areas and station income should be a factor considered by the Field Agent at every station.
Luckily, my FCC visits have been from real professionals who seemed more intent on helping you solve a problem than digging into the wallet. I've always found them to be helpful and quite understanding. I guess this agent might have been having a bad day or a not too friendly welcome at the station.
