The radio landscape just got a whole lot more interesting in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Duke Wright’s Midwest Communications has agreed to acquire KELO-AM 1320, KELO-FM 92.5, KSQB-FM 95.7, KXQL-FM 107.9, KRRO-FM 103.7, KTWB-FM 101.9 and KWSN-AM 1230 from Backyard Broadcasting.
Midwest Communications currently owns 47 stations throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana. So, their purchase of the Backyard stations represents their first acquisition in South Dakota as well as their most western properties.
What makes this especially intriguing is that the other major radio group in Sioux Falls also has new owners. Townsquare Media is in the process of assuming control of the Cumulus/Results Radio stations in that market. This transaction was consummated a few months ago. Townsquare is expected to take control of the cluster in August, 2012.
South Dakota’s largest radio market will soon be largely controlled by two operators who are both new to the market. To say this will be fun to watch and listen to would be an understatement!
Comment: If I were to put my magic Armchair PD/OM/GM hat on for a moment, I might be inclined to move Country KTWB from 101.9 to the more powerful 92.5 signal which is currently home to Lite AC KELO-FM. Then, move the KELO-FM calls to 101.9 as an FM simulcast for News/Talker KELO-AM. This would give KELO AM/FM parity with rival N/T KSOO. It would also put the very sellable Country format on what is by far the biggest FM stick in town. (92.5 is a full Class C: 100kW at 1,821 feet HAAT.)