Radio directors worry about station's future if $1 fee fails

The $1 KAMP student radio referendum, which could determine the fate of the program, will be on students' online ballots today and tomorrow in the 2003 Associated Students of the University of Arizona general election.

KAMP directors have said that if students vote to discontinue the fee, which has been added to students' tuition for the past five years, it could jeopardize the station.

"I don't know if we can continue to operate without (the fee)," said Brian Van Buren, general manager of KAMP Student Radio. "We've completely changed the way we operate in the years since we have had the money."

KAMP has used the student activity fee to broadcast its programs over the Internet and in residence halls, obtain an AM frequency and expand all areas of the radio station.

KAMP might also be able to soon secure a low-powered FM station, said KAMP advisor Mike Camarillo. However, the station must have at least $50,000 to pay for the dial number plus additional money for attorney fees and for the antenna.

If approved, the referendum could help provide those funds.

Since it took effect in 1997, the fee has generated more than $315,000 for KAMP.

"With that money, we are able to sustain an organization that runs in a smooth manner," Camarillo said. "Not being able to count on that fee definitely hinders the operation."

"I think this is extremely essential," Camarillo added.

The station also needs the money to upgrade equipment and move into a state-of-the-art studio in the new Park Student Union.

Before KAMP student radio joined Arizona Student Media, also home of the Wildcat, in 1997, the station raised only $700 all year. Since that time, the station has earned about $15,000 a year in revenue aside from the fee.

The $1 fee is refundable to any students who want their money back.

Students can vote at www.asua.arizona.edu today or tomorrow on this issue, as well as ASUA officers. For more election information, see pages 10 and 11.