KOCE Foundation to air

Deirdre Newman

The Federal Communications Commission said it will transfer KOCE-TV’s

broadcasting license to its foundation, quashing a challenge by

spurned bidder Daystar Television Network.

The FCC will announce the transfer on Sept. 14, setting in motion

a 30-day public comment period and then a 10-day review period by the

commission before it issues its final approval.

Coast Community College District chose the foundation as the

highest responsible bidder last October. It was also the only bidder

promising to keep the station’s PBS format.

Christian broadcaster Daystar Television Network contested the

decision in Orange County Superior Court, but a judge rejected the

network’s claim that its $25.1-million cash bid had a higher value

than the foundation’s purchase price of $28 million, most financed on

a long-term note.

Daystar appealed the ruling and asked the FCC to stop the license

transfer.

But the FCC found the foundation is legally qualified to hold the

license, and its ownership will further the public interest,

according to a letter the FCC sent to stakeholders this week.

Foundation Chairman Bob Brown heralded the FCC’s decision.

“We’re glad,” Brown said. “This is another step along the way, and

we’re closer to the end and we’ll be ready to close when the final

approval is received.”

Once the broadcasting license is transferred to the foundation, it

must make the $8 million down payment to the district.

But one obstacle remains: Daystar’s appeal.

Daystar asked the FCC to deny granting the license to the

foundation or at least wait until the appeal had been resolved to

make a decision. Daystar attorney Richard Sherman could not be

reached for comment.

The appellate court probably won’t issue its decision until next

spring, the college district’s attorney Milford Dahl said.

Although it has missed previous deadlines, the foundation will

definitely be ready to make the down payment when it comes due,

KOCE-TV Foundation attorney Ardelle St.George said. “We’re still

needing donations and support form the community, but we’re confident

that the deal will close just fine.” St.George said.