Media

WTJX Faces Fundraising Pressure and Possible Layoffs as Board Nominees Confront Financial Challenges

The financial health of the territory’s public broadcaster emerged as a central concern Thursday as three nominees to the WTJX Board of Directors appeared before the Senate Committee on Rules and Judiciary, with discussion focusing heavily on the loss of more than $1 million in federal funding, the need for stronger fundraising and the possibility of employee layoffs. Osbert E. Potter, Henry E. Schjang and Lisa Brown Williams, Esq. were considered by the committee, with Mr. Potter seeking renomination to the board. A former chief executive officer of the public broadcaster, Mr. Potter acknowledged improvements at WTJX while emphasizing the significant challenges that remain. “While the station has been making progress, we still have major priorities before us,” he said, identifying among them “raising funds for the station in a limited, tough market.” Mr. Potter repeatedly emphasized the need for WTJX to hire a development officer dedicated to generating revenue outside traditional g...