D99 has taken steps to make it more convenient to submit Freedom of Information Act requests through its Web site.
On Nov. 30, the district announced a new page for FOIA requests that includes an explanation of the act, directions for submitting a request and duplication costs. The site also includes information on how long it will take to get a response and the appeals process if the request is denied.
As a bonus, the page includes user-friendly links to various documents that may be downloaded at any time.
Well-designed and easy-to-maneuver, the page is a vast improvement over the district’s previous policy of requiring FOIA requests to be mailed or delivered in person.
DGreport contributor Mark Thoman had asked the district to reconsider that policy last summer. At the Sept. 21 board meeting, President Julia Kennedy Beckman reported that FOIA requests would be accepted by e-mail via a link on the D99 Web site. Requests also may be submitted via snail mail.
By making the FOIA process more accessible and transparent, D99 is getting out in front of changes to the state Freedom of Information Act, which become effective Jan. 1.
Transparency: It’s a good thing.
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