National Trust for Local News Sells 21 Colorado Publications to Times Media Group

Source: The Denver Post

Significant Changes in Colorado Community News

On May 13, 2025, the National Trust for Local News announced a pivotal shift in the landscape of Colorado’s community journalism by selling 21 of its local publications to Times Media Group, a community news publisher based in Tempe, Arizona. This strategic move is set to close a chapter for many publications along Colorado’s Front Range, including well-known names such as the Arvada Press, Englewood Herald, and Jeffco Transcript.

An Evolving Media Landscape

As local journalism continues to face challenges in the digital age, this acquisition represents a significant restructuring. The National Trust for Local News, which was founded in 2021 with the aim of bolstering local journalism, will retain ownership of seven publications. These include the Brighton Standard-Blade, Fort Lupton Press, Canyon Courier, Clear Creek Courant, Northglenn-Thornton Sentinel, Westminster Window, and Golden Transcript, all of which will now become part of the newly formed Colorado Trust for Local News.

Will Nelligan, the Chief Growth Officer at the National Trust for Local News, expressed optimism about this partnership. He noted, “Through this strategic partnership with Times Media Group, we can reduce our footprint in greater Denver without reducing local journalism there.” This statement highlights a transition that not only maintains local journalism in Denver but also aims to expand coverage in areas where it is needed most.

Details of the Acquisition

The deal is anticipated to finalize on May 14, 2025, and is part of a larger trend observed in community journalism, where larger media entities begin to consolidate operations to better meet local information needs. Times Media Group already operates over 60 publications in neighboring states, which provides them with an established infrastructure to potentially enhance the quality and reach of these Colorado titles.

In addition to the sale, the National Trust for Local News continues to operate a commercial printing facility known as Trust Press, which was initiated late last year to support the print media sector in Colorado.

Impact on Community and Employees

A significant aspect of this transition involves the employees of Colorado Community Media. The majority were offered positions with Times Media Group, while others are set to remain with the new Colorado Trust for Local News entity. This retention of talent is crucial in preserving the journalistic integrity of the publications being transferred to new ownership.

The National Trust for Local News embarked on its journey in Colorado by acquiring Colorado Community Media and has since worked to enhance local coverage and foster community engagement. This recent decision comes on the heels of previous announcements concerning the closures of two other notable publications, namely the “Washington Park Profile” and “Life on Capitol Hill.”

The transformation emerging from this acquisition is multifaceted. It shows a commitment to connecting local communities with reliable news sources and ensuring that critical, localized information continues to be accessible to Colorado residents.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Local Journalism

As the landscape for local journalism evolves, events like this highlight the importance of community ties and the ongoing necessity for dedicated coverage of local issues. The National Trust for Local News aims to leverage this sell-off to not only streamline operations but also to position itself for further growth in underserved areas.

While the changes may create some uncertainty, they also offer the potential for revitalized journalism focused on community needs. With heightened investments in local media, this could usher in a new era of journalism that emphasizes local stories and community involvement.

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local news, Colorado journalism, Times Media Group, National Trust for Local News, community publications, newspaper acquisition, media landscape, Colorado community media, local storytelling, newsroom transitions