Lexington Property Owner Sues to Terminate TV Station Lease
The owner of a site housing a TV tower is seeking to end a lease over claims of property neglect and unauthorized usage.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Apartments
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Stephen K. Justice filed a lawsuit in Fayette Circuit Court seeking to terminate a long-standing property lease with WTVQ-TV and Scripps Media. The legal action follows allegations that the site on Bryant Road has fallen into disrepair and includes unauthorized equipment.
Why it matters
The dispute centers on property maintenance and lease compliance, as the site currently hosts a television tower, cellular gear, and an FBI transmitter. Property owners in Lexington may face similar challenges regarding site upkeep and unauthorized usage when leasing land for industrial or communication infrastructure.
The lawsuit alleges that WTVQ-TV and Scripps Media failed to rectify reported property defaults within 30 days. The existing lease for the Bryant Road location, which has been in effect since 1967, is currently set to expire on October 30, 2027.
The players
Stephen K. Justice
The property owner who initiated legal action to terminate a long-term lease agreement.
WTVQ-TV
A local television station owned by Scripps Media that operates a tower and communication site.
Scripps Media
A media company that acquired WTVQ-TV in 2026 and also owns the local station WLEX.
The details
The plaintiff alleges the site buildings are vacant, unsecured, moldy, and damaged by fire, violating the terms of the lease. Additionally, the lawsuit claims the station failed to install required screening between the property and adjacent residential plots. The legal filing seeks to end the agreement based on these conditions and the presence of unauthorized third-party equipment.
Timeline
1967: The initial lease for the Bryant Road property began.
September 2026: The plaintiff issued a notice of default to the television station.
October 16, 2026: The lawsuit was filed in Fayette Circuit Court.
October 30, 2027: The current lease term is scheduled to end.
The Home Front
This dispute highlights the critical importance of maintenance clauses and screening requirements in long-term commercial lease agreements. Such filings reflect the broader trend of property owners enforcing strict site-use and upkeep standards as leases for infrastructure sites age.
Property owners should review their lease agreements for specific maintenance requirements and screening clauses for adjacent residential boundaries. Consult with a licensed real estate attorney if you believe a tenant has violated these terms or failed to address a formal notice of default.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder to document property conditions and maintain rigorous records of all lease-related communication. If you are leasing land, keep a dated copy of your original agreement and any correspondence regarding maintenance defaults to support future legal or administrative filings.
Further reading
Learn more about local rental and lease standards in our Apartments section.
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