KPCC Latest Media Outlet to Endure Financial Troubles

KPCC is the latest media outlet that could be forced to furlough employees due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

According to a release from Herb Scannell CEO, at Southern California Public Radio, the station could be forced to furlough employees due to budgetary issues.

Scannell told Pasadena Now on Thursday that the station is in the process right now of trying to figure things out, and aggressively fundraise.

“We’re going to collect all we can, what we can, and then we’re going to pause and try to figure it out,” Scannel said. “Our fiscal year begins July 1. Our estimates are that we could be down up to $10 million over the next 15 months in the short fall, which is meaningful. That means we have to look at all our costs and we’re doing everything right now to try to save jobs. That’s the MO. We’re trying to do is save jobs.”

Media outlets covering Pasadena — most already running at barebones staffing levels — have been forced to lay off employees, cut pay and furlough employees.

The lack of advertising dollars has forced some papers to closed.

KPCC has provided outstanding coverage of the pandemic and its impact on the region.

“KPCC is rising to the challenge to bring you lifesaving reporting that you rely on,” the release states. “By being a trusted source for fact-checked reliable reporting, you and your entire community can depend on our services and trust the information we provide to make safe decisions and live a healthy life.”

To donate to the station, visit support.kpcc.org/