Civic Media is buying 13 radio stations in Illinois and Iowa. The Wisconsin-based company will also pick up three translators, pending FCC approval. The deal covers the Galesburg, IL, and Burlington, IA, markets.
What We Know: Pritchard Broadcasting, Titan Broadcasting and Galesburg Broadcasting are the sellers. John T. Pritchard led the family’s broadcasting business for decades until his August 2026 death. His son, John C. LJ Pritchard, took over Titan in 2007. Additionally, the deal includes news/talk WGIL (1400/93.7) in Galesburg and talk KBUR (1490/99.3) in Burlington.
What They Said: “While we are sad to see the end of the Pritchard family’s long-standing media legacy in Galesburg, joining Civic Media brings valuable resources for our team and a shared commitment to our local community.” -Galesburg Broadcasting GM Roger Lundeen
“We believe radio plays a crucial role in our local communities and we look forward to supporting the teams at Titan Broadcasting, Pritchard Broadcasting Corporation, and Galesburg Broadcasting Company in fulfilling that role.” -Civic Media CEO Sage Weil
What Remains Unclear: Neither side disclosed financial terms. Furthermore, the FCC must approve the sale, and no timeline has been announced. Civic Media has not said whether it will keep current formats, staff, or local programming.
What It Means: While giant national conglomerates have spent years slashing local newsrooms, syndicating national shows, and centralizing operations. Civic Media is taking the opposite approach by focusing heavily on hyper-local news, high school sports, and local community engagement. Additionally, Small-market family owners are increasingly consolidating or selling as financial demands grow increasingly complex for independent operators.
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