MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – The Marshfield Common Council will receive an update on the city’s plan to implement a Low Power FM (LPFM) radio station during its meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. The presentation, led by Communications Director Tom Loucks, will detail the project’s funding needs, construction phases, and operational goals.
A Low Power FM (LPFM) radio station is a non-commercial, community-based radio service authorized by the FCC to operate at 100 watts or less, typically covering a 3.5-mile radius (though some can reach up to 20-30 miles depending on terrain and conditions). LPFM stations are designed to serve local communities by providing news, emergency alerts, public affairs programming, and entertainment. These stations are often operated by municipalities, schools, nonprofits, or community groups and are prohibited from running commercial advertisements, relying instead on sponsorships, donations, and grants for funding.
Project Background and Funding Needs
The city was granted an LPFM license on April 9, 2024, after applying during a 10-day window in 2023. However, the station must be operational within 36 months, or the license will be revoked, likely eliminating any future opportunity.
The estimated total cost to launch the station is $28,000, with funding being sought through a community fundraising campaign that began in February 2025. The project is broken into three phases:
- Phase 1 ($5,223.50) – Includes antenna placement, wiring, Cisco switch, and wireless access points.
- Phase 2 – Focuses on acquiring hardware and software.
- Phase 3 – Covers BMI and ASCAP licensing for music and content schedules.
Once operational, the city claims the station’s ongoing costs will be minimal, with a goal of funding it entirely through sponsorships rather than cable TV franchise fees.
Intended Purpose of the Station
City officials argue that the LPFM station will:
- Provide public safety and emergency alerts for Marshfield residents.
- Broadcast government meetings (City Council, School Board, and County Board) to enhance transparency.
- Expand local talk shows featuring city leaders and community organizations.
- Serve as an additional communication tool for schools, nonprofits, and local businesses.
- Offer music and entertainment programming for residents and visitors.
While supporters highlight the informational benefits, the $28,000 price tag raises concerns over the necessity of funding a city-run radio station when existing local media and online platforms already serve similar purposes. Critics argue that investing taxpayer or city resources into non-commercial broadcasting is an unnecessary expense, especially given the limited reach (20-30 miles) and competition with digital alternatives.
Despite these concerns, city officials emphasize that the project is designed to be self-sustaining and cite other Wisconsin municipalities, including Stevens Point, Waupaca, Oshkosh, and Rice Lake, as examples of cities that have successfully implemented LPFM stations.
The Common Council will not take immediate action on funding but will review the project’s status and fundraising efforts. The public can attend the meeting in person at City Hall (207 West 6th Street) or stream it live on the City of Marshfield website, Marshfield Broadcasting (Channel 991), and various online platforms.
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Author: News Desk
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