That's what I heard too. That Tegna is testing (or I guess actually implementing) a cheaper automation system at several stations to see if it'll work in place of the traditional systems (Ignite/ELC/Overdrive). Sounds like some of the stations selected were already automated too. Not sure what the AI component is or could be.
The KREM guy on Reddit said all production staff were laid off, but I can't imagine the technology exists yet to run completely without a director in the booth. Unless Tegna is fine with low quality productions that have no flexibility...?
Personally, I CAN imagine software that does the coding part, which would enable a single director to then be able to booth multiple, possibly back to back shows, resulting in a headcount reduction. Combine that with, and I'm totally speculating here, "hubbing" directing like Tegna has done with graphics and marketing, and they could get some "efficiencies".