After losing its Fox affiliation to Journal Broadcast Group’s KNIN-TV as of September 1st, Block Communications’ KTRV-TV Boise had embarked on a new life as an independent with local news as a key element. But now the economic reality of operating without a network affiliation has led to KTRV shutting down its news operation.
“We have some exceptional people here who put forth a terrific and honorable effort every day,” said Rick Joseph, president and general manager of KTRV in a statement. “But the new business model we find ourselves having to adopt does not include news.”
Block intends to continue operating in the Boise market and is interested in competing for any network affiliation whi8ch becomes available. It did not get the CW affiliation given up by KNIN, with that going instead to a digital channel of Fisher’s KBOI-TV (CBS).
“A network affiliate requires a different business model than does an independent station. As a result, a reduction in staff is taking place this week,” said Block Communications Vice President of Broadcasting Bill Lamb of the decision to exit news in Boise.
RBR-TVBR observation: As broadcasters know, local news is expensive. That fact seems to be beyond the grasp of regulators inside the Beltway and media critics who oppose TV duopolies and shared services agreements.
