A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the City of Effingham regarding unpaid parking violations on October 28, 2024. The request was made by us at East Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The records requested under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, include a list of all parking violations currently unpaid. Specifically, we have asked for details such as the name of the offender, their address, the amount due, violation date, and total due.
As a media organization committed to gathering and reporting news to the public, access to these public records is crucial for us in fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These responsibilities 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 media professionals.
We await response from the City of Effingham regarding this matter and will continue to strive towards ensuring transparency and accountability in local government affairs.