Webb City Sentinel

The Webb City Sentinel, operated by Zinc City Sentinel Inc., is a nonprofit digital news organization serving Webb City, Missouri, and nearby communities in the Webb City R-7 School District. It carries forward the 141-year tradition of local journalism established by the print Webb City Sentinel, which ceased publication in December 2020. The online edition launched immediately afterward in January 2021, ensuring continuity of news coverage for the community. Published weekly on Wednesdays, the Sentinel offers local news, community updates, and information relevant to residents, continuing the mission of the original print paper to inform, engage, and connect its readership. The newsroom operates under the principles of editorial independence adopted by the Institute for Nonprofit News, maintaining a strict separation between financial support and editorial decision-making. Certified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by the IRS in November 2021, the Sentinel relies on gifts, grants, and sponsorships from individuals, organizations, and foundations. Donations are often tax-deductible, and the organization maintains transparency by publicly listing donors who contribute $5,000 or more annually. By providing a free, digital platform, the Webb City Sentinel ensures that local journalism remains accessible, relevant, and community-focused.