Member Spotlight

Ottumwa Radio Group | KISS · KRKN · KBIZ · KLEE · KTWA · KOTM

The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Ottumwa Radio Group as our January Monthly Member Spotlight.

For nearly eight decades, Ottumwa Radio Group has served as a trusted local voice for Jefferson County and communities across Southeast Iowa. Through its six-station network—KISS 101.5 Classic Rock, KRKN 104.3 New Country, KBIZ 1240 AM/102.7 FM News Talk, KTWA 92.7 Today’s Hits and Yesterday’s Favorites, KLEE 1480 AM/107.7 FM Good Time Oldies, and KOTM 97.7 Today’s Best Music—the organization delivers daily news, comprehensive sports coverage, critical weather updates, and quality entertainment that keeps the region connected and informed.

Ottumwa Radio Group does more than broadcast content; it plays an essential role in the daily life of Southeast Iowa. From covering local government and elections to sharing community events and special programming that celebrates the area’s culture and heritage, the organization has remained firmly rooted in the communities it serves.

A Commitment to Community and Local Connection

At the core of Ottumwa Radio Group’s work is an unwavering commitment to community service and local presence. The Chamber recognizes the organization for being accessible, responsive, and genuinely local—where listeners can call the stations, walk through the doors, and know their voices will be heard.

Their programming reflects the diversity of Southeast Iowa, serving a wide range of audiences through multiple formats. From farming communities relying on trusted news and talk programming to younger listeners enjoying contemporary music, Ottumwa Radio Group ensures that every demographic has a local voice on the airwaves.

Integrity and accuracy guide their news reporting, while partnership and collaboration shape how their teams work together. Production, sales, and digital staff operate seamlessly to serve both listeners and advertisers, reinforcing the organization’s role as a connector between businesses and the communities they support.

Supporting Local Businesses and the Regional Economy

Ottumwa Radio Group is also recognized for its impact on the local business community. Their sales and digital teams partner with area businesses to create advertising campaigns that help them grow and thrive. By combining traditional radio with modern digital platforms, Ottumwa Radio Group adapts to today’s marketing needs while maintaining the personal touch that only local media can provide.

Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, the organization works collaboratively with clients—becoming partners in their success. From small startups to long-established employers, many local businesses have relied on Ottumwa Radio Group’s reach and expertise to connect with customers across nine counties.

Adapting Through Change While Staying Local

Like many media organizations, Ottumwa Radio Group has faced the challenges of a rapidly changing digital landscape. As streaming services, social media, and new technologies reshaped how audiences consume content, the organization chose to evolve rather than retreat.

By expanding online streaming, strengthening social media engagement, and developing integrated digital advertising options, Ottumwa Radio Group transformed from a traditional radio broadcaster into a comprehensive marketing partner. At the same time, the organization doubled down on what makes it irreplaceable—live, local broadcasting.

When severe weather threatens, when emergencies unfold, and when misinformation spreads online, Ottumwa Radio Group remains a reliable, verified source of information. This commitment to local service has allowed the organization not only to survive industry-wide disruption, but to continue thriving.

A Lasting Impact on Employees and Community

The Chamber also recognizes Ottumwa Radio Group for its impact on employees and the broader community. In an era when many local stations have disappeared, the organization has provided stable, meaningful careers in local media, investing in professional development and national recognition opportunities for its team members.

Beyond the workplace, Ottumwa Radio Group’s community impact is far-reaching. The organization has broadcast thousands of local high school sports games, creating lasting memories for student-athletes and families. Its veterans programming and Military Liaison initiatives connect veterans with resources and recognition. During natural disasters, public health crises, and other emergencies, the stations have served as a lifeline—sharing timely information when every second mattered.

Why Ottumwa Radio Group Matters

Ottumwa Radio Group’s greatest achievement is not a single award or milestone, but the trust it has earned over more than 80 years of service. In a time when many local voices have been silenced, the organization has kept local radio alive and strong in Southeast Iowa—connecting residents, supporting businesses, and strengthening communities every day.

For its dedication to local service, adaptability in a changing media landscape, and lasting impact across the region, the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Ottumwa Radio Group as our January Monthly Member Spotlight.