LOS FELIZ—On April 25, KCET announced that it sold its production studio to the Church of Scientology. The property was sold for an undisclosed amount.

KCET's logo. Photo courtesy of KCET website.

KCET serves the southern and central areas of California. For the past 40 years, the station has provided cultural and educational programming to the public. Program categories include arts and performance, food, science and nature, history and culture, kids and family, news and travel. Funding for KCET’s operations come partially from viewers' support.

In October 2010, KCET announced that it would break away from PBS due to an “inability to reach an agreement on a reduction in PBS fees and greater programming flexibility,” according to their website. On January 1, 2011, the station became independent.

This break from PBS made KCET the largest independent public television station. With this independence, the company is looking to expand its programming and media presence.

“New facilities and equipment will allow us to augment the quality, award-winning content that our fans love,” said KCET President and CEO Al Jerome in a press release.

The Church of Scientology agreed to allow KCET use of the facilities during the next year. Currently, the facilities are in full operation, while discussions with unidentified production facilities continue.

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