KRLT still moving forward with change in ownership plans and broadcasting Lights on the Lake July 4

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Many people may not even know there has been an ongoing behind-the-scenes story in efforts to keep KRLT-FM and KOWL-AM on the air (93.9FM and 1490AM on the dial).

COVID-19 brought many challenges to many types of businesses and people, and those who count on only advertising dollars to stay afloat saw the worst of it when businesses closed and couldn't advertise, then chose not to when reopening.

Steve Harness, the GM and co-owner of KRLT, announced the station was being sold last fall, but the process has become "bogged down in red tape" with legal delays neither he nor his lawyer had foreseen.

Due to the lack of advertising revenue and accumulating debt, Harness and his partners sought bankruptcy protection to try and have their Small Business Administration (SBA) economic impact disaster loan forgiven and have a plan and opportunity to settle debts.

The new owner is still on board, and the proceeds from the sale of the station will go to settle debts, but due to bankruptcy, the courts have to approve that plan.

"My partners and I will walk away with nothing," said Harness. "I’m doing all of this to try and do right by those involved, not the least of which is the community of Lake Tahoe. Local radio is still a vital tool for entertainment, marketing, and emergency information."

Harness said the deal with the buyer has been ongoing for nearly two years, and will ensure Tahoe doesn't lose any of the advantages of local radio once approved by the bankruptcy court and the Federal Communication Commission FCC(FCC).

"It will also ensure that all the staff of KRLT & KOWL can return to work in their previous capacities. That includes me staying on as GM and On-Air Talent and the return of Howie Nave to the morning show," added Harness.

With the courts and FCC approval processes delayed, Harness will continue to be the owner/operator through the summer of 2024 and will start to return on-air programming to normal shortly.

Part of the normal programming is the big Lights on the Lake fireworks show on the 4th of July. KRLT will once again broadcast the music that the fireworks are choreographed to.

In the coming days, the station will announce plans for the live 4th of July broadcast schedule including some very well-known KRLT radio personalities.

"I truly appreciate the continued patience and support this community has shown us," added Harness. "It’s time to move onward and upward, I’m excited for this next chapter of Tahoe radio."