FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AND OPEN MEETINGS ACT
The Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/1), became effective July 1, 1984 and insures records in the possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon request. This Act defines a public record as, “all records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memorandum, books, papers, maps, photographs, microfilms, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, electronic communications, recorded information and all other documentary materials pertaining to the transaction of public business, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared by or for, or having been or being used by, received by, in the possession of, or under the control of any public body.”
Some records are, however, not subject to release via the FOIA process. These types of records are described under 5 ILCS 140, Sections 2.15, 7, and 7.5. Some records may also be subject to provisions imposed by other state statutes. The FOIA process for disclosure of information does not supersede other applicable statutory and judicial mandates.
The Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/1) addresses topics such as providing notice of regular and special meetings, minutes, agendas and other related topics. OMA along with FOIA comprise the Sunshine Laws which are designed to permit the public to have insight into governmental operations.
FOIA Request Steps
Village of Teutopolis
Any person requesting records of the Village of Teutopolis may make such a request either in person, orally or in writing at the Village Clerk’s office located at 106 West Main. Such request should be made to Amy Vahling, FOIA Officer, at such address. Another method would be by mailing or emailing a written request to either Ms. Vahling specifying in particular the records requested to be disclosed and copies. All written requests should be addressed to the FOIA Officer at the address of the Clerk’s office. If you desire that any records be certified, you must indicate that in your request and specify which records must be certified.
The fees for any such records, if the person requesting the records wishes them to be copied, are as follows:
First 50 pages, black and white, letter or legal-size copies, no cost.
Additional pages, black and white, letter or legal-size, actual cost to $0.15.
Electronic records will be formatted subject to reimbursement of costs of recording medium. Color copies or copies in a size other than letter or legal shall be reimbursed to actual costs.
Cost of certifying a record will be $1.00.
Records may be furnished without charge or at a reduced charge, as determined by the Village, if the person requesting the documents states the specific purpose for the request and indicates that a waiver or reduction of the fee is in the public interest. Waiver or reduction of the fee is in the public interest if the principal purpose of the request is to access and disseminate information regarding the health, safety and welfare or the legal rights of the general public and is not for the principal purpose of personal or commercial benefit.