Studies show that when residents have easy access to local news, they are more likely to involve themselves in community activities. A recent Knight Foundation report draws attention to a “virtuous circle” where informed citizens contribute positively to their neighborhoods.

A study from Harvard Business School illustrates the consequences of a lack of local journalism. Communities that lose their newspapers often experience increased misconduct from businesses and government officials. One notorious example is Bell, California. As the local paper cut back on coverage, city officials engaged in financial mismanagement, controversially awarding themselves hefty salary increases. Such instances underline the dangers posed by diminishing local news outlets—not only do they undermine community participation, but they also jeopardize government accountability and corporate oversight.

In his book *Ghosting the News*, author Alex Jones argues that while a robust local media presence doesn’t guarantee good governance, its absence often leads to governance decline. When local newspapers shutter, communities lose critical oversight, leading to rising taxes and diminished governmental scrutiny. Local news organizations are essential in highlighting pressing issues, pressuring larger media and government to take action.

Despite significant challenges like declining revenues and changing readership habits, local newspapers remain vital; they are frequently the only institutions dedicated to covering public affairs at the regional level. However, the landscape of local news is shifting. Public radio, digital startups, local television stations, and even social media platforms are stepping in to fill the void left by traditional print media. The concept of “news deserts”, areas lacking local news due to newspaper closures, often overlooks the diverse sources still providing essential coverage. To foster community engagement and accountability, it’s critical to adopt a broader perspective on local news.

Journalists play a crucial role as intermediaries between policymakers and the public, ensuring accountability in local governance. They monitor town councils, zoning decisions, and school board meetings, keeping residents informed about significant civic matters.

The recent closure of 14 newspapers in Wyoming, seven in Illinois, five in Arizona, four in South Dakota, and one in Nebraska by News Media Corp. reflects the ongoing crisis in local journalism. Once positioned as “the voice of small-town America,” this move exacerbates the problem of news deserts in many rural areas.

This situation highlights a troubling trend of financial instability within local newspapers. According to the Medill Local News Initiative at Northwestern University, since 2004, over one-third of print newspapers and two-thirds of newspaper journalists have disappeared, as the industry contends with a rapidly changing landscape.

The reasons for these closures are multifaceted. Teri Finneman, a journalism professor at the University of Kansas, notes the industry clings to outdated business models, while the public’s willingness to pay for local news has diminished, resulting in insufficient revenue from too few subscribers. The situation is further complicated by corporate ownership, which often lacks the local insight needed to sustain smaller newspapers.

As local journalism faces unprecedented challenges, its role in cultivating informed, engaged communities remains critical. The future of local news depends on the commitment of consumers and communities to support these vital institutions.

One shining example of this commitment is the Fullerton Observer, an entirely volunteer-run newspaper that serves its community. Founded on the belief that a strong democratic system relies on a free and independent press, the Observer journalists are teachers, professors, students, and active community members.

Rusty Kennedy, one of the founding members, emphasizes, “The idea of starting an independent newspaper grew out of the sense that an important part of a strong democratic system is to have a free and independent press.” Every dollar earned through subscriptions and advertising is reinvested into creating, printing, distributing, and mailing the paper.

With a mission to inform Fullerton residents about political, economic, and social forces impacting their lives, the Observer hopes that this knowledge empowers residents to constructively engage with public and private entities, ensuring they operate in lawful, transparent, and socially responsible ways. The Observer fosters a sense of community that is both inclusive and representative, highlighting the enduring importance of local journalism.

Other sources and good articles:

https://citap.unc.edu/news/local-news-platforms-mis-disinformation/

https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Local-Journalism-in-Crisis.pdf