A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Moultrie County Clerk's office on January 14, 2025. The request, issued by us at Macon Reporter, sought comprehensive details about the candidates running for the upcoming 2025 Consolidated Elections.
In our pursuit of transparency and accountability in local governmental affairs, we asked for specific information under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. We requested a list of candidates participating in the elections along with specific fields such as candidate name, candidate filled date, and the office they are running for.
As a media organization dedicated to providing accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. This includes holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
We believe that our role in disseminating information makes us eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional. We await a response from the Moultrie County Clerk's office and will continue our efforts to ensure that our readers are informed about their local election candidates.