Editorial Policy of Carmel Neighborhood News
Carmel Neighborhood News is dedicated to serving the residents of Carmel, Indiana, with reliable, relevant, and respectful local journalism. Our core mission is to inform the community, foster civic engagement, and reflect the life of our city with integrity. This document outlines the standards and principles that guide our editorial process.
Editorial Independence
Our news judgments are made independently, free from undue influence by advertisers, sponsors, political interests, or personal relationships. Underwriting and advertising support our operations but do not determine, influence, or dictate our coverage, story selection, or editorial stance.
Accuracy & Fact-Checking Standards
We strive for accuracy in every report. All factual claims, including names, dates, locations, and data, are rigorously verified with primary sources whenever possible. Our journalists are responsible for the correctness of their work, which undergoes editorial review prior to publication.
Correction Policy
We are committed to transparency and accountability. When an error of fact occurs, we will correct it promptly and clearly. Corrections will be noted at the top or bottom of the article with an explanation of the change. Significant errors may be addressed in a dedicated corrections section. We encourage readers to report potential errors to editor@carmelnews.example.
Sourcing & Attribution
We attribute information to its source. Anonymous sources are used sparingly and only when the information is vital to the public interest and cannot be obtained on the record. In such cases, we describe the source's basis of knowledge and the reasons for anonymity. We clearly distinguish between news reporting, analysis, and opinion.
Conflicts of Interest
Our staff must avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. This includes:
- Disclosing any personal, financial, or familial involvement in a story topic to their editor.
- Not accepting gifts, favors, or special treatment from subjects of coverage.
- Refraining from political activism or public endorsements that could compromise impartiality.
Community Engagement & Commentary
We view our readers as essential partners. Letters to the editor and public commentary are welcomed but are moderated to ensure civility and factual basis. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length, and to reject submissions that are libelous, offensive, or promotional. Our forums are meant to foster constructive community dialogue.
This policy is upheld by our entire editorial team and is reviewed annually. Journalism, for us, is a public trust committed to the community of Carmel.