Kay Ivey replaces five Alabama Public Television board members

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has replaced five of the seven members of the Alabama Educational Television Commission, the body that oversees Alabama Public Television (APT). The decision follows more than a year of controversy regarding the organization’s relationship with the national broadcaster PBS.

Ivey’s communications director, Gina Maiola, stated that the Governor believes it is time for the commission to have a “fresh start.” The five new appointees are Wallace Gilberry, Ric Smith, Neil Lamb, Sally Smith, and Samory Pruitt. The two remaining board members, Tijuanna Adetunji and Logan Glass, represent the 2nd and 4th congressional districts.

The reshuffle comes after significant debate over APT’s ties to PBS. In November, the commission voted to maintain its relationship with PBS despite conservative criticism. A recent poll, funded by APT’s rainy day fund, indicated that two-thirds of respondents find the service valuable to Alabama families and students, with a majority supporting the continued affiliation with PBS.