Which of the following is NOT considered an essential document to be kept by the CM?

In construction management, maintaining a comprehensive set of essential documents is crucial for effective project oversight, compliance, and communication. The essential documents typically include correspondence, inspector daily reports, and records of contractor’s progress payments.

Correspondence encompasses communication between various parties involved in the project, serving as a record of discussions, decisions, and agreements. Inspector daily reports help track daily activities, inspections, and site conditions, thereby providing a detailed account of the project's progress and adherence to standards. Contractor's progress payments are critical as they document financial transactions, ensure that payments align with delivered work, and facilitate cash flow management.

Local newspaper reports, while they can provide context or general information about the project or area, are not directly integral to the management, operations, or administration of a construction project. They do not serve a functional role in the documentation that impacts project decision-making, legal protections, or compliance, hence are not considered essential for a construction manager to keep on file.