Spittle’s initial tasks include deciding how to reconfigure the station’s morning drive and/or afternoon drive lineups in the wake of Andre Ware’s departure and, in conjunction with corporate parent CBS Radio, what to do with weekends once Sporting News Radio departs in September.

"Those decisions will be sooner rather than later," he said. "I’m trying to see where everybody fits in at the station. We have some talented people and some likable people. It’s finding out where they fit best.

"One thing I can say is that we are going to be a caller-friendly radio station. We want to create a station where the listeners feel they know the hosts."

The move to weekly ratings reports from Arbitron has increased the pressure at some stations, but Spittle, who came to Houston from CBS Radio’s KRLD-FM in Dallas, seems confident that he has time to assess matters, make decisions and see how things develop.

"We want to put the right parts in place, believe in them and let them grow," he said. "We’re a society based on immediacy, but you can’t put a seed in the ground and expect a tree tomorrow. It needs to grow.

"What is great is that this station has a heritage in the market and great partnerships with the Texans, Rockets and the University of Texas, and we look forward to expanding those relationships. … We don’t want to rush decisions. We want to make the right decisions. "

His plans, however, do not include the weekend Sunday Block Party show hosted by Craig Shelton. Shelton was told Thursday that the show has been dropped.

"I was given an opportunity and learned some things, and (the station) gave me a resume," Shelton said. "This is a diverse city, and I think my show reflected that.

"I’ve got a lot to learn. I hope to stay involved. I love talk radio, and I’m hoping for another opportunity."

Spittle said he had no immediate plans on replacing the Sunday show.

"(Shelton and co-host Bobby Z) are great guys, and I wish them the best of luck," he said. "It’s one of those situations where a new coach comes in and has to make some changes."