WJAR-10 General Manager Says Kelly Bates Turned Down New Contract

WJAR-10 General Manager Says Kelly Bates Turned Down New Contract

As GoLocal reported on Tuesday, long-time meteorologist Kelly Bates has left WJAR-10. Now, the station is responding with its side of the story.

Bates said in a post, "So friends. This is it. I wanted to let you know that I am no longer employed by NBC10. If you know anyone who may be looking for a public relations expert with great oral and written skills, please send them my way! "

"Thank you for everything over the nearly 20 years of having the privilege of being a trusted person in the community. It has been one hell of a ride!," Bates added.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

 

WJAR Response

Now, Vic Vetters, the General Manager f the Providence-based Sinclair Broadcast Group affiliate said in a statement:

The WJAR team is saddened that meteorologist Kelly Bates is leaving the station after nearly 17 great years together. Kelly ultimately decided it was time to move on and elected not to renew her contract with us.  We thank Kelly for her dedication to WJAR and her commitment to keeping our viewers informed with critical weather updates throughout the years.  We wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors.

The station did not say if the contract was equal in terms of her previous agreement.

Tens of thousands have commented and or shared the GoLocal stories and thousand have signed a petition calling for WJAR to rehire Bates.

This story was first published 9/8/21 5:02 PM