Facing a steep budget shortfall, Maine Public Broadcasting Network officials developed a
plan to cut expenses that included salary reductions, job cuts and a temporary end to
broadcast in Washington and Aroostook counties. The last cut was met with outrage from
listeners and viewers. At the apparent prodding of a bill by Sen. Kevin
Raye, MPBN has now vowed to keep serving the two counties. What can the network do
to win back audience loyalty? Or is it impossible? Should the state increase its funding?
Will a busienss, perhaps with ties to Washington and Aroostook counties, underwrite
some of the additional tower costs?