It operates a Christian Talk & Teaching network with affiliated stations in some 18 U.S. states and in such markets as Kansas City, Memphis, Nashville, Merced and Fort Wayne. Now, Bott Radio Network is poised to enter Iowa’s state capital.
Through its Community Broadcasting Inc. not-for-profit corporation, BRN is agreeing to purchase presently silent KDPS-FM in Des Moines from the Des Moines Independent Community School District.
KDPS is an analogue-only 5.2kw FM facility with a broadcast tower on the north side of the Racoon River, just west of downtown. It signed on the air in 1953 and in the 1980s and 1990s was known for its mix of Top 40, Dance, Hip-Hop and Rock music, reflecting the tastes of students across Des Moines. “Edge 88.1” was its most recent branding.
However, the school district in June 2025 concluded operations for KDPS, put the station on the market, and obtained a silent STA from the FCC.
Now, KDPS is poised to resume operations under BRN control, thanks to a $175,000 purchase price the school district secured.
A $10,000 deposit is being held by the seller’s broker, Clifton Gardiner, with the remainder to be paid at closing by BRN’s Community Broadcasting.
Bott’s legal counsel in this transaction is Kathleen Victory of Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth.
