Pattison Media has announced that CHAT-TV in Medicine Hat, AB is closing its doors after 68 years of serving the community.
In an announcement Tuesday morning, Pattison Media President Rod Schween said despite exploring avenues to sustain operations, shrinking support for local TV and ongoing losses make it impossible to continue TV operations in Medicine Hat.
“Since 1957, we’ve had the honour of being part of the conversation in this community— elevating important stories, sparking dialogue, and empowering people,” Schween said. “Despite employing a variety of efficiency measures, the financial challenges facing CHAT-TV have proven insurmountable. The world of local television has shifted so much in recent years, making it harder for CHAT-TV to remain viable while continuing to deliver the impactful local programming that has connected Medicine Hat and neighbouring communities.”
The station closure means the loss of 16 jobs, which he called “the most difficult aspect of this decision.”
“They have been the heart and soul of CHAT-TV, bringing creativity, excellence, and dedication to everything they do—from promoting local events to producing award-winning commercials to reporting the local news that matters most. Their commitment has been nothing short of inspiring, and we’re deeply grateful to every single one of them. We’ll do everything we can to support them through this transition,” Schween continued.
“As CHAT-TV’s operations come to an end, we remain steadfast in our belief that strong communities need local journalism. While this closure represents a significant loss, it also serves as a reminder of the vital importance of supporting local media outlets in an increasingly challenging environment. Our two local radio properties, Wild 94.5 (CHAT-FM), My96 (CFMY-FM), and our rebranded news portal hatnewstoday.ca, remain committed to advocating for and championing local journalism to ensure the voices of Medicine Hat and other communities remain heard.”
Pattison Media also owns television stations in Prince George and Kamloops.
The announcement follows Stingray’s recent closure of its television stations, CITL-TV and CKSA-TV in Lloydminster, AB, and the elimination of 19 jobs, citing “challenging economic conditions.”
