Accountability journalism is an integral part of what we do here at Signal Cleveland. That’s why we train and pay Greater Cleveland residents to attend and take notes at local public meetings.
And that’s why our reporters investigate issues of public interest and hold those in power to account. That type of watchdog journalism is crucial to a strong democracy and a thriving community. Cleveland works better for all of us with strong accountability reporting.
A few highlights of our work this month
- Cleveland Documenters covered their 1,000th meeting. If you missed it, check out this video from ABC News about the everyday heroes keeping tabs on local government.
- We’re charging into 2024 with key accountability reporting about:
- the Office of Professional Standards, which provides Cleveland police oversight;
- the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency, which controls millions in tax dollars for roads and bridges;
- Cleveland State University and its discussions about possibly “absorbing” the financially struggling Notre Dame College;
- and a bank branch closing because of safety concerns in an East Side neighborhood.
We’re also clearly explaining issues that impact Greater Clevelanders in their daily lives, including navigating changes to the FAFSA form, which determines eligibility for college financial aid.
Look for our community reporter Najee Hall to expand the footprint of his reporting to all of Cleveland. He kicked off the year with a feature about a new coffee shop in Buckeye that focuses on building community one cup at a time.
Have a story idea for Najee? Shoot him an email.
More importantly, you’re taking action in your own communities
This fall we asked our audience (that’s you!) what you have done thanks to Signal Cleveland’s work. You told us:
- 62% shared a story to help inform a neighbor
- 28% voted in an election or registered to vote
- 20% attended a community meeting
- 18% contributed time or money to a cause or event
- 16% visited a local business
- 13% attended a local government meeting
Looking ahead
- We’re planning wall-to-wall coverage of the Cleveland budget hearings in February with Cleveland Documenters and our beat reporters. (Look for a 2024 version of our bingo card!)
- We’re finishing our special project focused on police accountability. Look for explainers and stories soon.
- And we’re leaning into videos so that our work is accessible to more people. Check out our videos explaining local government, touring Cleveland’s wards and highlighting new developments in neighborhoods across the city. Be sure to follow us on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok.
As always, thanks for your support. Here’s to a powerful 2024.