The purpose of this note is to update you on recent developments regarding the printing, distribution and delivery of our publications to our audiences throughout Montezuma County.
First and foremost, let me thank you for your support of our publications as we continue to chronicle the lives and events of your communities in Cortez, Dolores and Mancos, Colo.
Local media businesses across the country remain under constant pressure to provide engaging content to our readers that attracts local advertisers while containing production costs to avoid passing on price increases to our subscribers and newsstand readers. Accordingly, we executed a joint operating agreement with the Farmington Daily Times that will allow us to reduce printing costs, improve product quality and better adhere to home delivery schedules.
The decision to seek a printing partner in Farmington was predicated on the cost savings produced through the economies of scale of combining operations into one location. This action will ultimately result in the elimination of fewer than 25 positions in our Four Corners Printing facility located in Cortez as we ramp-down printing operations. The printing of our publications that serve our audience and advertisers in La Plata County transitioned to Farmington last week. The publications that serve Montezuma County will transition this week.
We are providing transition assistance to all employees of Four Corners Printing who are impacted by this change in business process. The Farmington Daily Times has expressed interest in many of our talented printing professionals, and several employment offers are pending.
The editors and journalists who produce the Cortez Journal, Dolores Star and Mancos Times will continue to be based in Cortez with no changes to content development or local advertising sales. Ballantine Communications remains committed to providing you with the best local news, sports and editorial content in Montezuma County.
We appreciate your continued support and readership.
Thank you,
Doug Bennett
Ballantine Communications
Chief Executive Officer