FOIA Request to City of Beardstown regarding a list of city employees on August 21, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted by West Central Reporter to the City of Beardstown, Illinois, seeking detailed information about city employees. The request, sent on August 21, 2025, aims to obtain a comprehensive list of all city employees with specific details including full name, sex, race, job title, department or division, annual salary or hourly rate if applicable, and hire/start date.
The request was made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), which allows for public access to government records. West Central Reporter has expressed a preference for receiving this information in electronic format. The media organization emphasizes that access to such public records is crucial for fulfilling its role in providing transparency and holding public institutions accountable.
In addition to requesting the employee list, West Central Reporter has requested a fee waiver based on its status as a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news. The requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation dedicated to assisting media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through FOIA and Sunshine Laws.
In Illinois, pet owners must have a license for certain pets like dogs and comply with state and local regulations. These licenses are defined in the Illinois Animal Welfare Act and must comply with the Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Rules. Licensing supports animal control and health programs and helps ensure that pets have the correct vaccinations against diseases like rabies.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
