Editorial Standards

Accuracy

We verify all factual claims before publication. When we report on permit applications, meeting minutes, court records, or other documents, we link to the original sources so readers can verify our work themselves.

We use multiple sources for significant claims and clearly distinguish between what we have documented and what sources have told us. When we cannot independently verify a claim, we say so.

Fairness

We seek comment from all parties mentioned in our stories, particularly those who may be portrayed negatively. We give subjects reasonable time to respond and include their responses in our coverage.

When a subject declines to comment or does not respond to our inquiries, we note that in our reporting. We do not ambush interview subjects or misrepresent our identities.

Transparency

We tell readers where our information comes from. Every story includes clear attribution, and our investigative reports include a “Primary Sources” section linking to the documents we relied upon.

When we use anonymous sources, we explain why anonymity was necessary and what steps we took to verify the information. We do not grant anonymity for personal attacks or opinions.

Independence

Our reporters and editors may not have financial interests in real estate, development, or construction companies in our coverage area. They may not accept gifts, favors, or free travel from sources.

We clearly label all sponsored content and advertising. Editorial decisions are made solely by our newsroom staff, without input from advertisers, donors, or board members.

Conflicts of Interest

Reporters must disclose any potential conflicts of interest to their editors before beginning work on a story. If a conflict exists, the story is reassigned to another reporter.

Staff members may not cover stories involving their own property, their family members' property, or any entity in which they have a financial interest.

Source Protection

We protect the identity of confidential sources. We will not reveal the identity of a source who has been promised confidentiality, even under legal pressure.

Our secure tip line uses end-to-end encryption. We do not track IP addresses of visitors to our tip submission form.

Corrections Policy

We correct errors promptly and transparently. Corrections are noted at the top of the affected article with a clear explanation of what was changed and when.

For significant errors that affected the substance of a story, we publish a separate correction notice and notify readers who may have shared the original article.

See our full Corrections Policy for more information.

Data Journalism Standards

Our permit database and data visualizations are built on original public records. We document our methodology and make our data available for independent verification when possible.

We clearly note the limitations of our data, including gaps in records or changes in how government agencies classify permits over time.