Where Did the Idea Come From?
The idea was discussed in the County for a long-time. An ad hoc organizing committee started to work in June 2011, culminating in a public meeting in November 2011 where 31 people voted unanimously to proceed.
What’s the Reason for a Local Station?
Prince Edward-County is a unique, diverse island which includes a wide variety of different communities. 99.3 County FM hopes to play an important role in the ongoing development of the County by enabling the various communities to learn about and from one another. It also supports the local economy by providing a cost-effective vehicle for local businesses to reach residents and tourists. 99.3 County FM is the only radio station exclusively focusing on the County.
What Kind of Station?
99.3 County FM is a community-owned, not-for-profit “over-the-airwaves” FM radio station which reaches all the wards in the County with a 3,000 watt signal.
What Will The Station Offer?
The programming serves the specific interests of County residents and visitors including: programming which showcases local musical talent; interviews of long-time County residents to capture their unique experiences and stories; summertime programs for tourists to let them know what’s going on; public affairs programs which deal with important local issues; timely information on local weather, funerals, and community events; news from the wards; etc….something for everyone in the County.
Who Will Decide How It’s Run?
The station is run by a not-for-profit corporation (“Prince Edward County Radio Corporation”) with a membership of over 300 local residents. A strong board of directors with significant radio and business experience oversees the operation of the station.
Who Will Do The Work?
85 active volunteers keep the station on the air, while there are an equivalent of 3 full-time paid positions including the General Manager. All on-air hosting is done either by volunteers, or in the case of paid employees, on volunteer time outside of paid working hours.
Where Does the Station Get its Funding?
The station depends, first and foremost, on the local community for its funding in the form of advertising revenue from businesses and donations from individuals. The station has also received grants to help with startup from the Municipality, the Community Radio Fund of Canada and the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
What Can I Do To Help As An Individual?
You can become a station member. You can volunteer. And you can donate to the “Community Radio Fund” administered by the Prince Edward County Community Foundation and get a tax receipt for any contribution over $20.
What Can We Do As A Business?
Your company can provide much needed support and help promote your business at the same time by becoming an advertiser. For further information contact sales@993countyfm.ca.
How Can I Learn More?
For further information on donating, sponsoring or getting involved, see our Contact page.