KAMP gets support from Likins

"It is a very easy thing for me to say yes to," Likins said Wednesday. "It was not a difficult decision."

Likins said he wrote the March 26 letter in support of the low-power radio proposal because he believed a campus station could bring together the University of Arizona community.

"Reserving a portion of the allotment for higher education would further a number of broad university missions, including teaching and outreach," he wrote.

The Federal Communications Commission is considering opening radio space to smaller stations by granting low-power frequencies to smaller stations. The federal agency is allowing a comment period until June 1 for response to the idea.

If the proposal succeeds, KAMP would be able to broadcast within an eight-mile radius. The student-run station now broadcasts in the Memorial Student Union on 1570 AM.

KAMP General Manager Justin Clifton said Likins support should influence the FCC.

"...It sets a precedent for other universities to step up to the plate," Clifton said, adding that Likins is the first university president to support the FCC's proposal.

"It is a tremendous step forward," Clifton said.

KAMP officials attempted to gain a FM station last year, but found insufficient space was available. If the station garnered a spot on the FM dial, it would mark the first time that the station could broadcast off-campus.

KAMP Coordinator Chip West said Likins' letter demonstrates that leaders within the university are supportive of the station's venture.

"It validates what our students are working so hard to do," West said.

The Associated Students President Tara Taylor also wrote a letter of support, dated March 24, supporting the low-power frequency proposal on KAMP's behalf. In addition, the ASUA Senate passed a resolution calling on the FCC to back the station's plan.