A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the City of Decatur regarding unpaid parking violations on October 28, 2024. The request was made by us at Macon 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, specifically seek a list of all parking violations currently unpaid within the city. The information sought includes the name of the offender, their address, the amount due for each violation, the date when each violation occurred, and the total amount due.
As a media organization, we are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill 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 Decatur regarding this request and will continue our efforts in ensuring transparency in local government affairs.
