Miami-Dade School Board Sues WLRN Management Over West Palm Beach Station Purchase

The Miami-Dade County School Board has filed a lawsuit against South Florida Public Media Group (SFPMG), the management company of public radio station WLRN, alleging breach of contract and misappropriation of funds over SFPMG's $6.45 million acquisition of The Flame 104.7, a full-powered radio station in West Palm Beach. The school board contends that the purchase violated an agreement restricting the use of funds and donor lists, arguing that public dollars intended for Miami-Dade community programming were improperly diverted to acquire a separate station outside their jurisdiction. SFPMG defends the acquisition, stating the funds came from a spectrum lease it owns and that the new station will provide vital public media coverage to over 800,000 residents in Palm Beach County, an area underserved by robust public radio. The board has petitioned the FCC to block the station purchase and demands the return of millions of dollars it says were wrongfully diverted. Superintendent Dr. Jose Dotres emphasized that the financial resources should enhance programming and broadcasting facilities within Miami-Dade rather than fund an out-of-area station. The dispute highlights tensions over control and funding of public media assets, with SFPMG denying any contractual breaches and reviewing legal options in response to the lawsuit.