Stingray has announced the closure of CITL-TV and CKSA-TV in Lloydminster, AB and the elimination of 19 jobs, effective immediately, citing “challenging economic conditions.”
A note posted to the station websites expressed appreciation to viewers “for allowing CITL and CKSA to be part of your lives.”
CKSA first went to air in September 1960, while CITL would have celebrated its 50th anniversary next July. CKSA was a CBC affiliate from its launch through 2016 when it shifted to carrying Global programming, followed by Citytv in 2021, while CITL was a CTV affiliate. They were two of the last remaining stations in the country to sign off overnight, breaking away from network programming with the playing of the national anthem.
CKSA and CITL were the only two conventional television stations in the Stingray portfolio, acquired through the company’s acquisition of Newcap Broadcasting in 2016. Both stations simulcast a 6 p.m. Primetime Local News broadcast. The company said in an announcement that with economic conditions deteriorating over the last six years, viewership had substantially decreased with revenues dropping by more than half.
“Despite cost-containment strategies, the expense of producing local television in a market the size of Lloydminster has resulted in significant losses, making the continued operation of the Lloydminster TV stations unsustainable,” Stingray said in a release.
“This difficult decision to cease our television operations in Lloydminster was made after prolonged consideration and thorough exploration of alternative possibilities for the properties, including ownership transfer to other broadcasters,” added Steve Jones, President of Stingray Radio. “We wish to recognize the dedication and perseverance of the staff of CITL/CKSA whose commitment and passion for television have informed and entertained their community. We also sincerely thank our viewers, our community partners, and our advertisers.”
The company also cited a reduction in support from programs aimed at propping up local television news like the Independent Local News Fund (ILNF).
Stingray says it remains committed to serving the community of Lloydminster through its local radio station New Country 95.9 (CKSA-FM), and four other stations in the surrounding area: Hot 101.3 (CJEG-FM) Bonnyville, boom 95.3 (CJXK-FM) Cold Lake, boom 101.9 (CJSS-FM) Wainwright, and Hot 93.7 (CKWY-FM) Wainwright.
“The company is deeply invested in these communities and believes strongly in the short and long-term viability of small market radio,” Stingray noted.
