Consolidation of Huntsville TV station staff ‘still taking shape,’ GM says
Combining 31, 48 news and weather team still under evaluation, general manager says.
Chloe Mitchell 
The ongoing integration of the WAFF 48 and WAAY 31 news and weather departments remains a work in progress as the stations navigate their new operational landscape.
Evaluating the Future of Local News
WAFF General Manager Jama Killingsworth recently discussed the transition with 205focus.com, emphasizing that there is no singular blueprint for managing two major network stations in the same market. Killingsworth noted that the team is focused on maximizing their investments to ensure they are best positioned to serve the Huntsville community.
Despite the changes, Killingsworth assured viewers that the standard of local journalism will remain high. She explained that the consolidation is designed to increase the presence of reporters and meteorologists in the field, ultimately expanding the reach of 48 News both on-air and across digital channels.
Programming and Station Operations
Looking ahead, the stations are moving toward a mix of original and simulcast newscasts. The logisitical structure remains clear: ABC programming will stay with WAAY 31, while NBC content will continue to anchor WAFF 48. Although Killingsworth declined to discuss specific personnel matters, she maintained that the objective is to build a stronger, more capable newsroom.
Recent Changes Following Gray Media Acquisition
This transition follows Atlanta-based Gray Media’s $171 million acquisition of WAAY and nine other stations from Allen Media Group last year. As the integration has unfolded, some staff members have announced departures, while others have confirmed they will be part of the consolidation process.
Digital changes are also evident; the WAAY news and weather app was discontinued last week, and the station's web traffic now directs users to the WAFF website.
