I am very disappointed in the University of San Francisco's recent decision to sell the broadcast license for 90.3 FM, where KUSF sat ("Hundreds protest decision to shut radio station KUSF," Jan. 20).
KUSF was a valuable resource to San Francisco. The station's locally produced programming exemplified the unique diversity and eclecticism that is San Francisco. KUSF broadcast in nine languages, giving a voice to those who have few other outlets through which they could be heard.
President Stephan A. Privett's blatant disregard for the people of San Francisco through this sale and the way it was handled is shameful. Although corporate deals involving commercial stations are common, stations in the public-radio frequency range should be treated differently. These stations are specifically set aside by the federal government for community service and noncommercial purposes. The transfer of these licenses should not happen without input from the community the station serves.
The University of San Francisco sought no community input in its decision to sell the frequency. The University of San Francisco and the community of San Francisco should come to a mutually beneficial solution to allow KUSF to remain intact on the broadcast dial at 90.3 FM.
Carolyn Keddy, Oakland
