Officials at the Detroit newspaper agency that operates the areas two major papers announced Friday that layoffs would be necessary, Local 4's Derricke Dennis reported.

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Union Rep Talks Newspaper Layoffs

More than 60 workers were expected to be affected by the layoffs including those in production, distribution, administration and advertising and marketing.

The only area not affected by the agency's decision is the editorial department, the station reported.

"(It's the) first time in the newspapers' history -- Free Press and News. It's the first time that they've laid anybody off," said Dennis Nazelli, of Teamsters Local 372.

Nazelli's union represents the largest number of workers affected with 10 to 12 full-time positions being eliminated, in addition to 50 temporary positions.

"Right now they're being told. They've had meetings all day and those that are going to be affected by it have been notified that today was their last day," said Nazelli.

Suzie Elwood, a spokesperson for the Detroit newspapers, released the following statement Friday:

"It's been a year of increased costs in healthcare and newsprint. We've seen a less than strong economic climate in the Midwest. We will reevaluate the numbers in four months."

Union representatives credit the strike of the 1990s that lasted 5 ½ years for the weakening circulation of both newspapers, Local 4 reported.

"It's unfortunate that now the bottom line, instead of journalism, is dictating how they treat their employees," Nazelli said.

Newspaper officials plan to review the budget cuts on June 1.