East Central Reporter

FOIA Request to Crawford County regarding tax relief requests for veterans with disabilities on June 10, 2025.

On June 10, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Crawford County, Illinois. The request seeks access to specific records concerning property tax relief and exemptions for veterans with disabilities and their surviving spouses. The East Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to covering local governmental affairs, has requested these documents under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.

The FOIA request specifically asks for documents from Tax Year 2024 through the present. It includes records of individuals who have requested or received Property Tax Relief as a Veteran with a Disability or as a Surviving Spouse of a Disabled Veteran. Additionally, it seeks information on those who have applied for or received a Specially Adapted Housing Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities pursuant to 35 ILCS 200/15-165. The request also covers those who have sought or obtained a Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities under 35 ILCS 200/15-169 and those who have requested or received a Returning Veteran’s Homestead Exemption in accordance with 35 ILCS 200/15-172.

The East Central Reporter emphasizes its role in providing transparency and holding public institutions accountable by accessing public records. They also mention their eligibility for a fee waiver due to their status as media professionals. This request is part of their ongoing efforts in collaboration with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, an organization that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.

Crawford County is home to approximately 2,681 students enrolled across its schools, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 12-to-1 during the 2022-23 school year. This community's educational environment reflects its commitment to maintaining accessible public services.

Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.