Lexington Landowner Sues WTVQ over Property Lease
A property owner is seeking to terminate a lease with WTVQ and Scripps Media over claims of site neglect and unauthorized use.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Apartments
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Stephen K. Justice has filed a lawsuit in Fayette Circuit Court seeking to cancel a lease agreement for a property located off Bryant Road in Lexington. The suit claims the current tenants allowed the site to fall into disrepair and failed to address required site improvements.
Why it matters
The legal action highlights a dispute over the maintenance of a site that currently hosts critical infrastructure, including an FBI transmitter and various cellular equipment. The outcome could force a significant transition for the entities operating at the Bryant Road location.
The disputed site spans 20 acres and carries a monthly rent of $600. The lease agreement was initially signed in 1967 and remains active under terms that do not conclude until October 30, 2027.
The players
Stephen K. Justice
He is the property owner who initiated legal action against the station operators.
WTVQ-TV
This is a Lexington television station that serves as a primary tenant for the Bryant Road property.
Scripps Media
This media conglomerate acquired WTVQ in August 2026 and also owns the television station WLEX.
The details
The lawsuit alleges the tenant failed to install mandated screening between the property and nearby residential plots and claims the buildings on-site are currently vacant, unsecured, and moldy. Furthermore, the plaintiff contends that unauthorized third-party equipment was installed on the land without proper authorization.
Timeline
The initial lease for the property was established in 1967.
A notice of default was issued to the station in September 2026.
The lawsuit was filed in Fayette Circuit Court on October 16, 2026.
The current lease term is scheduled to conclude on October 30, 2027.
Culture Shift
This dispute reflects the broader trend of land-use conflicts where aging commercial infrastructure encounters modern development requirements. The situation mirrors legal precedents regarding the maintenance obligations of long-term commercial tenants under the Kentucky commercial real estate lease default statutes.
The presence of an FBI transmitter and cellular equipment on the site suggests that a successful lease termination could require complex infrastructure relocations. Nearby residents may see changes in site security and land management as the legal proceedings move forward.
The takeaway
Property owners should remain diligent in enforcing maintenance clauses to avoid long-term deterioration of their land holdings. Clear communication and documented notices of default are essential steps when attempting to resolve commercial lease disputes before resorting to litigation.
Further reading
For more on local property developments, visit the Lexington Apartments section.
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Should property owners have the right to terminate leases over unexpected land use by tenants?
