Chicago Sun-Times, WBEZ look for more cuts
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A Sun-Times newspaper box in 2017. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images
Chicago Public Media, the owner of the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ-FM, announced Wednesday morning it is seeking voluntary buyouts from staff.
Why it matters: Last year, the public media company faced budget shortfalls, cutting several jobs before introducing its new CEO, Melissa Bell.
The big picture: The goal is to save $3-5 million with the buyouts, according to an email Axios obtained from the union that represents Sun-Times staff.
What they're saying: "Our hope is that this action and other efforts will reduce our costs so that we can avoid more significant cost-cutting measures down the road," Bell said in a letter to members and subscribers.
- Bell also outlined her vision for the future of the company, which includes revitalizing their digital product, reimagining the Sun-Times and adding more local programming to their WBEZ lineup.
Zoom in: The voluntary buyouts are focused primarily on the Sun-Times staff, but also include WBEZ business personnel.
- WBEZ newsroom staff will not be affected.
Between the lines: The Sun-Times contract that was approved in 2023 stipulates no union employee can be laid off due to the merger with WBEZ.
Flashback: CPM bought the Sun-Times in 2022 and raised millions in philanthropic donations to give the paper funding through 2027.
The intrigue: The restructuring comes as CPM tries to get staff to return to the Navy Pier offices.
Zoom out: The organization says the Sun-Times and WBEZ has 4.3 million listeners and readers weekly.
What's next: The station will start accepting buyouts from employees next week.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.