Council Member Pollard Secures $100K for Houston Public Media and KTSU FM Support

Houston City Council member Edward Pollard announced a significant contribution of $50,000 each to KTSU FM 90.9 and Houston Public Media during a press conference on August 19, 2025. This funding aims to support local public broadcasting stations that have faced severe financial challenges due to recent federal funding cuts.

Pollard emphasized the critical role of public media in providing reliable information, especially in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly. He noted that the cuts, amounting to over a billion dollars nationally, have impacted many public broadcasting stations, including those in Houston. KTSU FM, a cultural staple for over 50 years, and Houston Public Media, serving the community for nearly four decades, both rely heavily on public funding to operate.

The funding will be directed towards a resiliency fund, which is designed to help these stations maintain their services despite financial setbacks. Jason Adams, general manager of Houston Public Media, expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the station's commitment to delivering fair and balanced journalism, especially during emergencies. Ernest Walker, general manager of KTSU, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the station's mission to serve the community.

Pollard reiterated the importance of local government stepping in to fill the gaps left by federal cuts, stating that public media is essential for education and democracy. He encouraged community members to support these institutions to ensure they continue to provide valuable services.

The announcement marks a proactive step by the Houston City Council to bolster local media, ensuring that residents have access to trustworthy information and programming that reflects the community's needs.