Local News Crisis Threatens Michigan Communities, LMA Summit Sparks Call to Rebuild

July 23, 2025

Michigan is experiencing a severe decline in local journalism, with 40% of newspapers lost since 2005 and more than half of counties down to one or no local news outlets. This crisis prompted a summit at the Detroit Athletic Club on July 22, organized by the Local Media Association and partners, where media leaders discussed the consequences of declining local coverage and potential solutions. The gathering highlighted alarming statistics, including the loss of 58% of journalism jobs in Michigan over 15 years, and emphasized the critical role local journalism plays in maintaining community accountability and democracy.

Who is affected

Michigan residents, particularly the one million people living with limited access to local news
Communities in "news deserts" where residents have little to no access to trusted local coverage
Underserved populations who rely on local reporting for accountability
Local governments and institutions that previously had oversight from journalists
Journalists who have lost jobs (58% of journalism positions lost in 15 years)
News consumers across 25% of Michigan counties with only one or no local news outlet

What action is being taken

Media leaders are gathering at summits like the one at Detroit Athletic Club to address the crisis
Organizations like the Local Media Association are working to raise awareness and equip leaders
News outlets are forming partnerships to amplify each other's reporting
Media companies are diversifying revenue through events, digital innovation, and philanthropic support
The Michigan Chronicle is producing more video content and hosting approximately 60 events annually
Detroit PBS is livestreaming and rebroadcasting discussions about the crisis to reach broader audiences

Why it matters

Local journalism provides accountability for school boards, mayors, landlords, and police departments
Without local reporters, important civic matters go uncovered, particularly at town halls and government meetings
The absence of local reporting creates "news deserts" where citizens lack information about their communities
The crisis impacts public trust in media and democratic institutions
Local news connects communities and provides essential service journalism
The decline particularly affects areas outside urban centers, where alternative news sources are limited

What's next

Media organizations plan to strengthen partnerships and expand collaboration
Public media aims to build deeper relationships with colleagues to reach more underserved areas
News outlets will continue seeking diversified funding sources and innovative revenue streams
Philanthropy is expected to bring "innovation capital" to local newsrooms
Organizations will work to train the next generation of journalists
No explicit next steps stated in the article regarding specific programs or initiatives with concrete timelines

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle