Fargo-based Prairie Public has cut twelve staff positions in response to the elimination of federal public broadcasting funds and reduced state spending. President and CEO John Harris says the organization lost approximately $2.5 million per year in government funding, representing a 25% revenue reduction, according to a North Dakota Monitor article by Michael Achterling.
Seven employees were laid off and five open positions eliminated, reducing staff by 18%. The cuts follow Congress rescinding $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting in July. North Dakota’s Legislature also reduced state funding from the proposed $2.9 million to just $400,000. Harris says some programs may be reduced or eliminated, though Prairie Public will continue educational programming and maintain its transmitters. The organization is seeking increased viewer and listener support to fill funding gaps.
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