Another public radio station is making cuts and programming adjustments to address a budget shortfall. The University of Washington news/talk KUOW Seattle (94.9) is laying off eight employees and will eliminate three open positions.
“KUOW, like many media outlets, is facing financial headwinds that necessitate realigning our operating cost model with the realities of changing consumer media consumption behavior and the availability of public, corporate, and philanthropic funding,” President Caryn Mathes said. “To address this shortfall, KUOW will reduce FY2025 operating costs by $2 million,” she continued. “$1 million of this will come from ending the RadioActive Youth Media program and the elimination of eight current and three open staff positions.”
The Seattle Business Journal reports that the cuts affect 6% of KUOW’s workforce.
“While reductions are being made across all departments, they are being implemented thoughtfully, taking into account the unique needs and functions of each area, and with careful consideration given to preserving the core functions of our organization,” Mathes explained. “This approach aims to distribute the impact of the reductions fairly while maintaining a balanced and sustainable organizational structure. We recognize that these staff reductions will significantly impact the affected employees, and we are committed to providing support and assistance throughout the transition process.”
Last week, Boston University news/talk WBUR Boston (90.9) said the station was cutting 14% of its staff through a combination of buyouts and layoffs in hopes of reducing expenses by $4 million, or 10% of its annual budget. Also in April, non-commercial news/talk KQED (88.5) San Francisco initiated voluntary buyout plans. Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting news/talk WESA (90.5) and adult alternative WYEP (91.3), Santa Monica College news/talk KCRW Los Angeles enacted similar plans.