eBay founder launches paid-for news website

eBay founder Pierre Omidyar is launching a paid-for online news site, offering “a new approach to journalism”.

The Hawaii-based local news service Civilbeat.com will charge $19.99 a month for membership when it goes fully live on 4 May, although some parts of the site are up and running already.

The site sees ‘reporter-hosts’ posting articles and hosting discussions, and is intended to act as a ‘civic square’ for subscribers to debate local issues.

Civil Beat editor John Temple said: “Civil Beat was founded on the idea that everyone has something to contribute, and that civil discourse is essential to a healthy democracy. So what better way to show that than to invite you in and start talking – before we begin delivering the news? Our message, we hope, is clear: We want to learn from you. Peer News is about content, but it’s also about conversation. This approach allows us to get going by doing what’s most important in any conversation – listening.

“We want to hear your suggestions and questions. Our reporter-hosts will be sharing their experiences and insights with you over the coming weeks, but they’ll be looking for you to share your thoughts and expertise, too. Not just with us, but with our other original members.

“At Civil Beat, we’re taking a different approach to journalism. Part of that difference should be visible today. The rest will become apparent on May 4 – and in the weeks and months that follow, as we expand our offerings.”