A new community radio station is preparing to hit the airwaves in Geneva, marking the culmination of a more than decade-long effort to bring locally driven programming to the city.
WGCC, broadcasting at 104.1 FM, is expected to begin test programming on April 19, offering a mix of music, news and community-focused content designed to reflect a wide range of voices and perspectives.
The low-power FM station is operated by Geneva Community Projects and will serve as the city’s second LPFM station, joining Hobart and William Smith Colleges’ student-run WHWS. The FCC-created LPFM service allows nonprofit organizations to operate local radio stations focused on community engagement.
Station organizers say WGCC will feature a diverse lineup of programming at launch, including music genres such as jazz, classical, folk, hip-hop and world music, alongside talk programming covering topics like health, culture, science and social issues. Initial content will include syndicated programming from public radio sources and independent producers, with plans to expand into locally produced shows.
The station is also expected to serve as a platform for community members, with organizers actively seeking volunteers interested in hosting their own programs. Local shows will eventually be made available as podcasts after airing.
The project is led by longtime Geneva broadcaster Jason “Jake” Longwell, who has worked in local radio for more than 30 years and has been involved in the Geneva radio scene since 2004. Efforts to launch a second community station date back more than 15 years, with earlier attempts delayed by regulatory and technical challenges.
The station received its construction permit from the FCC in early 2024 and began building its transmission site in 2026 after securing a location on Boodys Hill Road with support from the Seneca Yacht Club.
In addition to broadcasting, the tower will support wildlife tracking equipment as part of a national research network monitoring bird and bat migration.
More than $37,000 was raised to support the station’s launch through donations from local businesses, foundations and community partners. Ongoing operations will be funded through listener contributions, underwriting and fundraising efforts, as federal regulations prohibit traditional advertising on LPFM stations.
A formal ribbon-cutting event is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
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