Since the app noted above by the OP was deleted, what does that mean for a future potential candidate whenever an LPFM filing window is to occur? Or better yet, is there any discussion of a forthcoming LPFM filing window any time soon? Admittedly I am a bit out of the loop of current LPFM happenings including LP-250.
Whether the channel is available will be based on whether the proposed site and channel would meet the minimum distance separation requirements under §73.807 of the rules. Since LPFM uses distance separation, translators use contours and LPFM stations protect all translators as if they are nondirectional (even if they are directional), there is a possibility that a translator can move in near an LPFM station, meet the prohibited contour overlap requirements and cause a short spacing to an LPFM station. In that case, the LPFM station can still exist and operate, however, that LPFM station will not be able to modify their facility to move closer to the translator. Likewise with a cancelled LPFM license. If there is now a translator nearby that was placed after the LPFM station before it was cancelled, then it is very likely the channel would not be available for another LPFM station at the same location.
REC's official word on a future LPFM window:
In MB Docket 19-193 (2020), the FCC had stated that it was planning to hold a window for new full-service NCE stations (which happened in November 2021) and that sometime after that, it may hold a filing window for new LPFM stations. As of this time (January 3, 2023), the FCC is still working on the groups of mutually exclusive application groups from the 2021 NCE Window. We are expecting one or two more point system hearing orders to come out of that window. Once that activity is completed, then it is likely the FCC will hold another LPFM filing window. REC has been in discussion with the FCC at both the Media Bureau and the Commissioner Staff level to promote another LPFM filing window. REC Networks is currently accepting shows of interest from potential applicants in this "third generation" LPFM window. Prospective applicants can visit
https://lpfm.app to read about the LPFM service, what to expect from the service, the costs, obligations and considerations and then check locations to see if LPFM may be available and then put themselves on a list for handling by REC in the event that a future LPFM window opens.
REC's official word on LP-250:
At this time, there has been no substantial movement on LP-250. REC remains in occasional contact with the Commission, both in the Media Bureau and Commissioner Staff on this subject. It has been REC's full intention the entire time that the debate over LP-250 should not delay a future LPFM filing window therefore, we have always proposed LP-250 to be a path for upgrade from an existing LP-100 station that meets the extended distance separation requirements proposed by REC in RM-11909. RM-11909 addresses specific concerns about our previous LP-250 proposals (RM-11749 and RM-11810) and we feel that we have met the Commission's concerns in respect to compliance with the Local Community Radio Act (even though our position was that both RM-11749 and RM-11810 did also comply with the LCRA). We do feel that because of a split (2/2) Commission compounded by the strong opposition by the NAB for the ability for LPFM stations to have power levels and coverage that are at or near the same level as a small subset of FM translators, that any ambition by the Commission to move forward with LP-250 is currently stalled. REC has been working on LP-250 for the past 10 years and we will continue to push this, especially if we get a fifth commissioner who is friendly to LPFM.
