(DURHAM, April 19, 2012) – With the approval today of the University System of New Hampshire Board of Trustees, New Hampshire Public Television (New Hampshire Public Broadcasting) will begin the process of transitioning from an entity of USNH into an independent, community-licensed broadcasting company.Since 1959, NHPTV has been an activity of the University System of New Hampshire (USNH) and, since 2008, a subsidiary corporation of USNH. After state funding for NHPTV’s programs and services was eliminated in July 2011, the USNH and NHPTV governing boards began a business analysis of NHPTV and study of it remaining part of USNH. When state funding was eliminated, the University System was also subject to very significant state budget cuts that made it extremely difficult to continue to financially assist NHPTV."Today's action puts NHPTV on a path to independence, and one that will provide them the flexibility they need in an industry that is full of both change and opportunities," said USNH Chancellor Ed MacKay. "We look forward to being supportive of NHPTV's ongoing educational mission and to working with them when opportunities arise."Based on the joint study, the NHPTV and USNH boards determined it was in the best interests of both organizations for NHPTV to become independent. With this change, USNH agreed to transfer NHPTV’s broadcast licenses and permits granted by the Federal Communications Commission to the NHPB Board of Directors. The formal change in governance is anticipated to occur on July 1, 2012. In accordance with its agreement with USNH, NHPTV will continue to operate from its broadcast center in Durham, NH. Since NHPTV’s restructuring last year as a consequence of losing $2.7 million in state funding, it has been able to balance its budget by eliminating 20 full-time positions and reducing remaining staff salaries and benefits. Additionally, NH Outlook and Granite State Challenge, two locally focused programs produced by NHPTV, were placed on hiatus. “We are very appreciative of the USNH Board of Trustees’ support over the years, which has enabled NHPTV to fulfill its mission as a community partner, and to become a leader in local broadcasting and educational services,” said NHPTV President and CEO Peter Frid. "This past year has been one of austerity. I want to assure our viewers and supporters that NHPTV's financial position continues to be strong, and we look forward to developing our local services to better serve New Hampshire."NHPTV Board Chair Jeff Gilbert noted, “Our Board of Directors has been working diligently with the USNH Trustees on setting terms of separation that are fair and respectful of the needs of both our organizations. We are preserving the programs and services of New Hampshire’s only locally owned and operated statewide television network and PBS member.”
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