Cutbacks at WETA as it cuts $4.4 million in spending
WETA eliminated 21 staff positions and canceled three TV shows as it looks to cut $4.4 million in spending this fiscal year, reports Current.
CEO Sharon Rockefeller announced the downsizing in an email to employees that was shared with Current. “WETA is a strong institution with an unwavering commitment to serving this community and the nation,” she wrote, “but we need to adjust the scope of our work to meet our current fiscal reality.”
The workforce reduction, states Current, includes layoffs of 12 active workers and the elimination of nine vacant positions, representing approximately 5% of the employee roster of more than 400 staff.
WETA also canceled its local television shows If You Lived Here, Get Out of Town, and WETA Best Bets, and ended publication of Telly Visions, its website and podcast about British television and culture.
Separately, adds Current, WETA plans to reduce the circulation of its monthly print magazine, which goes to members who donate at least $35 every month. Mary Stewart, VP of external affairs, said in an interview that WETA will assess members’ interest in a digital-only version.
