State’s Attorney

How to File a Freedom of Information Act Request

Members of the public may request to inspect or obtain copies of public records maintained by Calhoun County pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 ILCS 140/1 et seq.

For more information about the types of records maintained by Calhoun County, please review the Types or Categories of Public Records.

FOIA Request Form

FOIA REQUEST FORM

A FOIA Request Form may also be obtained from the Calhoun County Clerk’s Office. Use of the form is not required, but it may assist in ensuring that sufficient information is provided to process your request.

Process for Submitting Requests (Per Section 4(b), 5 ILCS 140/4)

All FOIA requests must be submitted in writing and should include the following information:

1. The name, mailing address, and contact information of the requester.
2. A description of the public records being requested sufficient to allow the County to locate the records.
3. Whether the request is for commercial purposes, as defined by the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

To request inspection of records or copies of records maintained by Calhoun County, please submit your written request by mail, email, fax, or personal delivery to:

FOIA Officer – Lucas J. Fanning

Phone/Fax: (618) 576-9013

Email: Lucas.Fanning@calhouncountyil.gov

Description of Records Requested

Please be as specific as possible when describing the records you are seeking. You may indicate whether you would like:

• Copies of the requested records, or
• To inspect the records in person.

Under FOIA, you have the right to request either inspection or copies of public records.

The Freedom of Information Act is intended to allow the public to obtain or inspect existing records. It does not require public bodies to answer questions or create new records in response to a request. If you wish to ask questions about a county office or program, please contact that office directly.

Response Time

Calhoun County will respond to FOIA requests within the timeframes required by the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Under most circumstances, a response will be provided within five (5) business days after receipt of the request, unless an extension of time is permitted under the Act.

Fees

Fees for copies of records will be assessed in accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

Fee Waivers

Requesters may request a waiver or reduction of copying fees. To request a waiver, please include a statement such as the following in your written request:

“I request a waiver of all fees associated with this FOIA request.”

The request must also include a specific explanation of how disclosure of the requested information is in the public interest, rather than primarily for the personal or commercial benefit of the requester.

Additional Information

Certain records or portions of records may be exempt from disclosure under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act or other applicable laws. When records are withheld or redacted, the County will provide a written explanation citing the applicable exemption.