Lake Tahoe radio station KRLT-FM staying on the air during sale

Changes are coming up at Lake Tahoe's radio station, KRLT. Owner/operator Steve Harness announced Thursday that the station is being sold to a "broadcasting veteran that wants to take over as owner and help revitalize this station with a fresh start."

Harness was the long-time disc jockey at the station when he bought it eight years ago. The pandemic was hard on the station, and Harness told the public at that time that KRLT was in serious financial trouble. With help from the community and the government, the station was able to stay on the air after the devastating 90 percent loss of revenue.

"But the truth is, we didn’t really survive that COVID economy," said Harness. "It buried us in debt and now it’s all catching up to us."

As the ownership changes, Harness and another DJ will keep the music going.

"I’ve had to furlough some of the staff including Howie [Nave]," said Harness. "So, for now, we’re going to call it 'Howie’s Morning Hiatus.' You’ll still hear Nick and I on the airwaves and we’ll be here with great music, weather updates, and anything else you need to know about Tahoe."

For fans of Lake Tahoe: A Moment In Time on Mondays, new ways to share the history of the Lake Tahoe area are being investigated. The Lake Tahoe Historical Society will share stories on its Facebook page in the meantime (https://www.facebook.com/LakeTahoeHistoricalSociety).

The station's fresh start is expected at the beginning of 2024.

"I truly appreciate you the listener continuing to support us," said Harness. "It means everything to me to keep this station live and local like it’s been for over 50 years and this is the only way I can do that. So onward and upward we go, stay tuned for more. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

KRLT can be heard at 93.9FM and online at https://krltfm.com/.