In Ohio, the Public Records Law governs state and local jurisdictions when it comes to access to public records. Open meetings are another aspect of citizen access to government and how decisions are made.
Through three attorneys general, this state office has published the 'Sunshine Book' which details what is required of public bodies when it comes to open meetings and public records.
Here is a downloadable version of the book, which also includes case law. While the 'yellow book' is intended as a guide for public officials, citizens can utilize the information in their efforts to hold public officials accountable.
If a download isn't practical for you, copies can be obtained by contacting the Attorney General's Program Develop Department at (614) 644-5224.
Other FOIA Friday posts from around the net:
http://www.gilfordgop.org/2008/04/meeting-notes-41708.html#more
http://thefoiablog.typepad.com/the_foia_blog/
"While the 'yellow book' is intended as a guide for public officials, citizens can utilize the information in their efforts to hold public officials accountable."
ReplyDeleteWhere was this book when Pete, Tina and, J-Fo's unigov plans sidestepped the sunshine law?
In Toledo / Lucas county politics the motto goes...
"Where there's a will, there's a way...around anything"!