Letter: Local media needs more local support, including from elected officials

By Letter to the Editor on June 10, 2025.

Dear editor,

The closing of CHAT-TV shocked us all, but was probably expected if you think about it.

We tend to think media like newspapers, TV and radio stations, which have been part of our lives, will be there forever, but the media survives only if it is supported by advertising revenue.

Pattison’s decision to close did not come easily and was probably in the works for a long time. The flood in their building may have been the last straw affecting very valuable and expensive equipment to replace, plus the cost of restoration.

And now we have social media, streaming, satellite technology, etc., to contend with, taking away our attention and support for our local happenings.

It is interesting to note that during the recent election that MP Glen Motz did not use CHAT-TV at all. Did he not think local viewers would care, or did he not have confidence that that medium could carry his message, whatever it was?

Come to think of it, did he use the MH News at all? Social media carries advertising at cheaper rates with all the profits going out of the country.

Social media also does not have any regulations governing their content like radio and TV stations do.

That seems unfair. You would think Motz would carry that message to Ottawa, but that would be hypocritical since he didn’t even use CHAT-TV.

If we want to maintain our city’s culture and keep our local institutions around, we must support them. Don’t be surprised if the News is next, or a couple of radio stations. It is the way of the 21st century and we are all part of it.

Tom Rooke

Medicine Hat

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