As local newspapers shutter across the country, veteran TV news reporter Kevin Wallevand believes local television news has a critical role in bridging the information gap for communities. With decades of experience in journalism, WDAY-TV in Fargo’s Wallevand has seen firsthand how TV news can provide the connection and accountability often lost when small-town papers close.
“In some of our smaller towns, local news is still on their menu,” said Wallevand. “But what’s happening is all these small-town papers are done, which is horrible because there’s no watchdog for school boards, county commissions, or city councils. Things can go under the radar without local journalism.”
Wallevand emphasized that TV news, while not a perfect replacement for newspapers, remains a key player in keeping communities informed, particularly on significant local issues. “We have such a huge coverage area that some stories, if they’re within an hour or two, we absolutely go after them,” he said, though he concedes they can’t get to every important story. “If it’s something major—like misappropriation of funds or criminal investigations—we step in, because it’s our role and our job.”
The collapse of small-town newspapers has not only left gaps in oversight but also removed an essential avenue for community connection. Wallevand pointed to his own approach as evidence of how local TV news can maintain trust and relationships. “Eighty percent of my stories come from people I know—people who see me at the grocery store, at church, or at the university,” he shared. “The longer you stay at a station, the more stories get generated. It’s all about relationships.”
Despite these strengths, Wallevand acknowledged that local TV faces its own challenges, including limited resources and growing coverage demands. “We’re doing more with the same size staff—or even smaller,” he said. “That means less time for research and fact-gathering, which is frustrating when trying to provide the depth that communities need.”
Wallevand remains cautiously optimistic about the future of local TV news, particularly its ability to fill the void left by newspapers. “Local TV has to play a role—it always has,” he said. “It’s our responsibility to stick to quality journalism that serves the community.”
As communities across the U.S. grapple with the consequences of news deserts, Wallevand’s perspective underscores the importance of preserving and supporting local TV news. “People know they can call us, and we’ll at least check on their concerns,” he said. “That’s what makes local TV successful—it’s doing stories that are meaningful and connecting with the people who matter most.”
This is Part 1 of an exploration of local TV’s role in filling the gaps in a depleted local news ecosystem.
