It is with great concern I strongly oppose the layoffs of Herald employees.
Carpenter Media of Mississippi wrote the layoffs were necessary to “improve the economics of the newspaper and better serve the community.” It is my belief these two goals are in conflict with one another.
Absentee ownership of companies presents significant challenges for any company as we all witness in aerospace and in my former career in telecommunications. This decision by Carpenter Media does not “better serve the community” but rather hastens the collapse of The Herald that serves Everett and Snohomish County. I would urge Carpenter Media to cancel the layoffs and pursue other proven methods to improve the profitability of The Herald. It has been my experience and opinion Carpenter gather together community leaders and “Best Practice” media outlets across the country to research and implement opportunities to improve the bottom line.
As a former private sector employee and former elected official I believe the strength of democracy depends on a robust, well functioning newspaper. Open, honest journalism and investigative reporting are keys to well functioning government.
I would offer my time and experience to serve on a community group that respects the employees, successfully serves the community, and ensures the profitability of The Herald. If Carpenter Media believes the reading public will not notice the negative impact of their cost-cutting measures I believe they are sadly mistaken. Please reconsider your decision.
Ray Stephanson
Everett
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
