NYC Radio: Public Radio To Reduce Staff

New York Public Radio is set to reduce its workforce by approximately 7%, as the organization grapples with ongoing financial difficulties. The announcement came on Tuesday, with Chief Executive LaFontaine Oliver informing staff via email that 21 full-time positions will be cut, three of which will transition to part-time roles. Additionally, seven vacant positions will be eliminated entirely.

The public radio entity oversees several outlets, including WNYC news station, WNYC studios, the Gothamist website, WQXR classical music station, New Jersey Public Radio, and the Jerome L. Greene Performance Space. In his message, Oliver emphasized the unique role the organization plays in local media, calling it both a privilege and a duty. He stressed that these measures are essential to ensure the company’s financial stability moving forward.

Alongside the layoffs, New York Public Radio will discontinue two long-standing programs: “New Sounds,” a fixture since 1982, and “New Standards.” However, Oliver noted that efforts will continue through May to find a philanthropist or new platform to preserve “New Sounds.”

This round of cuts follows previous reductions in recent years. Last September, 14 of the company’s 302 employees were let go, with another dozen opting for voluntary layoffs. The year prior, a 12% workforce reduction was implemented. Oliver highlighted that these latest layoffs come after other cost-saving measures, such as a $1.5 million cut in operating expenses, a suspension of retirement plan matching, and leaving certain executive positions unfilled. He believes these steps bring the organization close to breaking even for the first time in years.

In his email, Oliver acknowledged the challenging media and political climate that has forced significant adjustments within the company. “I know it hasn’t been easy,” he wrote, expressing regret over the circumstances.