A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the City of Colchester on October 28, 2024. The request was made by us at West Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request seeks access to a list of all parking violations currently unpaid within the city. The requested information includes the name of the offender, their address, the amount due for each violation, the date of violation, and the total amount due.
As a media organization, we are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.
We await a response from the City of Colchester regarding this request.