The Hometown Journal is committed to responsible, independent, and community-focused journalism. Our editorial standards are designed to ensure accuracy, fairness, and transparency in all content we publish, regardless of subject or location.
These principles guide our newsroom, contributors, and editorial decision-making.
Accuracy and verification
Accuracy is the foundation of our work. All information published by The Hometown Journal is verified to the best of our ability before publication. We rely on primary sources whenever possible and clearly distinguish between verified facts, analysis, and opinion.
When errors occur, we correct them promptly and transparently.
Independence and impartiality
The Hometown Journal operates independently of political parties, corporate interests, and advocacy groups. Editorial decisions are made without external influence. Our reporting aims to inform, not persuade, and we strive to present relevant context so readers can form their own conclusions.
Opinion content is clearly labeled and separated from news reporting.
Sources and attribution
We prioritize on-the-record sources and responsible attribution. Anonymous sources are used only when there is a clear public interest and when the information cannot reasonably be obtained otherwise. In such cases, additional verification is required.
All sourced material is credited appropriately.
Community responsibility
As a local-focused publication, we recognize the impact our reporting can have on individuals and communities. We approach sensitive topics with care, avoid unnecessary sensationalism, and respect privacy while serving the public interest.
Our goal is to reflect communities accurately and fairly.
Ethics and conflicts of interest
Contributors and editors are expected to disclose any potential conflicts of interest. We do not accept gifts, compensation, or incentives that could compromise editorial integrity. Sponsored or partner content, when published, is clearly identified as such.
Editorial content and commercial relationships are kept strictly separate.
Corrections and updates
If a factual error is identified, we correct it as soon as possible. Corrections are noted clearly within the article or appended when appropriate. Significant updates are timestamped to maintain transparency with readers.
Editorial oversight
All content published by The Hometown Journal is subject to editorial review. We reserve the right to edit submissions for accuracy, clarity, structure, and compliance with our standards while preserving the original intent of the work.
Our commitment
Our commitment is to serve local readers with journalism that is trustworthy, relevant, and grounded in facts. These editorial standards exist to protect that trust and to ensure consistency across all of our coverage.
The Hometown Journal stands for local reporting done carefully, responsibly, and in the public interest.