Sustaining local news in south Lincoln County

Another year of turmoil in Yachats city government, burgeoning municipal projects in Waldport, fights over vacation rentals in Lincoln County, stories from the ever-changing beaches and ocean just to our west, abandoned RVs, important elections, and features on groups, events and people that help stitch together our communities.

Those were among the topics of more than 1,000 stories published by YachatsNews in the past 12 months.

Four years ago, residents of south Lincoln County would not have heard much of anything about those topics. In the past 4½ years YachatsNews has published more than 4,300 stories, added statewide news from partner organizations, and more recently began sharing events-related content from Oregon Coast TODAY.

But it doesn’t come without substantial effort, dedicated reporters – and money.

A year ago, YachatsNews asked readers for help to sustain its operation and you generously donated enough money to help us hire a full-time reporter to help cover the news in south Lincoln County.

Now we’re asking again.

Today, YachatsNews is launching its second annual month-long fundraising campaign with a goal of $50,000 to sustain its local news operation for the next 12 months. Readers donated $53,000 during last year’s campaign.

This once-a-year request is part of our overall financial plan that includes grants from charitable foundations, paid advertising, and small, regular monthly donations from readers.