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TRULY-LOCAL

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John@Truly-Local.org

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In an era where information flows through countless digital channels, local communities often struggle to maintain cohesive communication networks. Yet the need for reliable local information sharing has never been greater. Research shows that 71% of Americans believe local news outlets are doing well financially, while the reality is that more than 2,500 local newspapers have closed since 2004. This void creates both challenges and opportunities for communities seeking to establish their own information networks.

The erosion of traditional local media has created what researchers call "news deserts" – areas where residents have limited access to crucial local information. According to a 2023 report by the Local News Initiative, about 70 million Americans live in counties with only one local newspaper or none at all. This gap in local coverage affects everything from voter turnout to municipal bond ratings, demonstrating the vital role of local information in community well-being.

Communities can address this challenge by creating multi-channel information networks that combine traditional methods with digital innovations. Here are a few potential avenues a community may take to fill the communication and information void.

Start with a community website serving as the central hub. Platforms like WordPress or Squarespace offer affordable solutions, with setup costs typically ranging from $200-500 annually. The key is ensuring mobile accessibility, as 85% of Americans now access news via smartphones.

Create multiple information distribution channels. This can include email newsletters, studies show email newsletters have an average open rate of 22% for local content, significantly higher than commercial emails.  Maintain active profiles on platforms where your community members gather. Facebook groups remain particularly effective, with 35% of Americans regularly using them for local information.  Consider developing a simple community app. Basic app development can cost $5,000-15,000, but grants and local business sponsorships can offset expenses.

Successful community networks typically employ a hybrid content model. This might include hiring a part-time coordinator (15-20 hours/week) to manage the network, engage community members as citizen journalists, collaborate with local institutions like schools, government offices, and civic organizations, and enable community members to submit events, news, and updates

Research indicates successful community networks typically require $30,000-50,000 annually to operate effectively. Funding can come from “Community Memberships” inviting citizens to pay for the local information, 25% of Americans say they would pay for local news.  “Business Sponsorships” where local businesses often allocate 5-15% of marketing budgets to community initiatives. Look for grants through organizations like the Knight Foundation offer specific grants for local information projects.  Some communities allocate funds from communication or economic development funds.

When implementing this network establish transparent guidelines up front a simple for a simple and effective editorial policy.  Make sure the submission guidelines are clear.  Assure that you have a vetting process to assure accuracy when possible, as well as a community feedback mechanism.

Communities that have implemented such networks report significant benefits.  Those benefits range from a 45% increase in civic engagement, a 30% higher attendance at local events, a 25% improvement in emergency response awareness, and a 40% increase in local business visibility.

Creating a community information network requires careful planning, sustainable funding, and broad participation, but the benefits far outweigh the investment. Success depends not on complex technology but on community buy-in and consistent management. By combining traditional community values with modern digital tools, local areas can build information networks that strengthen civic engagement, support local democracy, and foster community connection.

The key is starting small, building systematically, and growing with community needs. As traditional local media continues to decline, community-driven information networks will become increasingly vital for maintaining informed, connected, and resilient local communities.

John Newby is a nationally recognized Columnist, Speaker, & Publisher. He consults with Chambers, Communities, Business & Media. His “Building Main Street, not Wall Street,” column appears in 60+ newspapers and media outlets. As founder of Truly-Local, he assists chambers, communities, media, and businesses in creating synergies that build vibrant communities. He can be reached at: John@Truly-Local.org.