Understanding Open Records Requests in Jonesboro

The Jonesboro Bridge…
Bridging the gap between residents and local government, one conversation at a time.

Have you ever wondered how residents find out how government decisions are made, how taxpayer dollars are spent, or what documents exist regarding a city project?

One of the most important tools available to the public is something called an Open Records Request.

While the term may sound intimidating or legal, the concept is actually very simple.

What Is an Open Records Request?

An Open Records Request is a formal request to view or obtain public government records.

In Georgia, the Georgia Open Records Act gives citizens the right to inspect or receive copies of many records maintained by government agencies, including cities, counties, school systems, and state agencies.

Think of it this way:

The government works for the people, and many government records belong to the people.

An Open Records Request is simply the process citizens use to access those records.

What Types of Records Can Be Requested?

Depending on the situation, a person may request:

• Meeting minutes
• Contracts
• Invoices
• Financial reports
• Emails related to city business
• Policies and procedures
• Bid documents
• Purchase records
• Building permits
• Public reports and studies

These records can help residents better understand how their local government operates.

What Records Cannot Be Released?

Not every record is available to the public.

Georgia law contains exceptions that protect certain information, including:

• Personal medical information
• Social Security numbers
• Certain personnel records
• Active criminal investigations
• Attorney-client privileged communications
• Information protected by state or federal law

When a record contains protected information, the city may redact (black out) those portions before releasing the document.

Are There Fees Associated with Open Records Requests?

In some cases, there may be a fee associated with obtaining public records.

Under Georgia law, government agencies may charge reasonable fees for the cost of searching, retrieving, reviewing, copying, and producing records. The exact cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of the request and the policies of the municipality or agency receiving the request.

For example, simple requests involving only a few documents may have little to no cost, while larger requests requiring extensive staff time or a significant number of copies may result in a fee.

If a fee is expected, the agency will typically provide an estimate before fulfilling the request, allowing the requester to decide whether they would like to proceed.

The purpose of these fees is not to discourage access to information but to help offset the administrative costs associated with processing records requests.

How Does This Apply to the City of Jonesboro?

Like every city in Georgia, the City of Jonesboro receives Open Records Requests from residents, businesses, media organizations, attorneys, and other interested parties.

These requests may relate to city finances, development projects, public safety matters, policies, contracts, or other government activities.

When a request is submitted, city staff must locate the records, review them, determine what can legally be released, and provide a response within the timeframe required by Georgia law.

Because some requests are simple and others are very large or complex, the amount of time required can vary.

Why Do Open Records Requests Matter?

Open Records Requests play an important role in government transparency.

They help:

🧡 Residents stay informed

🧡 Build trust between government and the community

🧡 Provide accountability

🧡 Preserve public confidence in government operations

🧡 Ensure access to public information

Whether someone supports a city decision or disagrees with it, access to information allows residents to form opinions based on facts rather than rumors.

Common Misunderstandings

One common misconception is that filing an Open Records Request means someone is “against” the city.

In reality, Open Records Requests are a normal part of government operations.

Residents, businesses, journalists, elected officials, researchers, and community organizations all use Open Records Requests for a variety of reasons.

Requesting information is simply one way people participate in local government.

Another misconception is that all records must be produced immediately. While cities must respond within the timeframe established by law, gathering and reviewing records can take time, especially when requests involve large amounts of information.

The Bottom Line

Transparency and accountability are essential ingredients of good government.

Open Records Requests help ensure that residents have access to information about the institutions that serve them.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a new homeowner, a business owner, or simply someone who wants to learn more about your community, understanding Open Records Requests can help you become a more informed and engaged citizen.

After all, government works best when residents have access to information, ask questions, and stay involved.

Forward With Fox

Councilwoman Santia Fox
Reshaping One Jonesboro