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Local Village Of America News

The Information Age Sues City Over Public Records

City refused to turn over requested files.

by D. Tim Clark

February 9, 2010

During an investigation into a story relating to the possible misappropriation of funds at the City of Carrollton last September, The Information Age requested copies of a limited number of non-health related insurance documents using the State of Georgia's Open Records Request Process. However, the city refused to provide the requested documents while repeatedly stating:

"The City finds this individual request overly broad and unduly burdensome."

On Monday, The Information Age filed suit against the City of Carrollton in Carroll County Superior Court to obtain copies of the requested public records.

Court documents state
"Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 50-18-70(b), all of Defendant's records 'except those which by order of a court of this state or by law are prohibited or specifically exempted from being open to inspection by the general public, shall be open for a personal inspection by any citizen of this state at a reasonable time and place; and those in charge of such records shall not refuse this privilege to any citizen.'"

Additionally
"No legitimate excuse or justification exists for Defendant's cavalier disregard of its duties under the Georgia Open Records Statute."

The Information Age is asking for:

• The documents;
• An award covering all costs; and
• "Whatever other relief the Court deems just and proper."

Carrollton City Attorney Chuck Conerly accepted delivery of the associated court documents on Monday afternoon.

This story is published on the following community web sites:

West Georgia | Carroll County | Bowdon | Carrollton | Mt. Zion | Roopville | Temple | Villa Rica | Whitesburg

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