Chicago Public Media and the Chicago Sun-Times are in talks about possible partnerships.
CPM Interim CEO Matt Moog told staff in an email Wednesday morning obtained by Current that WBEZ is “currently exploring partnerships and opportunities with the Chicago Sun-Times to strengthen local journalism in the city and our region.”
Chicago media reporter Robert Feder first reported that the entities are discussing combined ownership, citing anonymous sources, and that CPM’s board will vote on a plan Wednesday night in a closed meeting.
Sun-Times CEO Nykia Wright told staff Wednesday that the newspaper is “in talks with Chicago Public Media to determine if there is an opportunity to become a combined entity,” according to a report by WBEZ’s Tony Arnold. “It is very important to note that we are not close to any deal. Opportunities like this require a lot of due diligence.”
In a follow-up email to staff Wednesday afternoon also obtained by Current, Moog addressed staff concerns “that these discussions could impact job security.”
“I want to reassure you; nothing could be further from the truth,” Moog said. “The fundamental premise of these talks is about growth and investment and expanding local journalism in Chicago. Job security and offering career opportunities are of paramount importance.”
Moog added that “nothing is final” and that staff will have “multiple opportunities going forward for input before anything is finalized.”