FOIA Request to Lake County Election Division Regarding Upcoming Election Candidates on February 5, 2025.
West Central Michigan News, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, has sent a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Lake County Election Division. The request, dated February 5, 2025, seeks information about all candidates running in the upcoming election.
The requested records include details such as the candidate's first, middle and last names; the office they are running for; the jurisdiction of that office; and their party affiliation. Additionally, West Central Michigan News has asked for contact information for each candidate including their address, phone number and email address.
As a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, West Central Michigan News states that access to public records is essential for fulfilling its professional responsibilities. These responsibilities include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given its role in disseminating information, West Central Michigan News believes it is eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq.
The request underscores the importance of transparency in local government affairs and highlights the role of media organizations in ensuring accountability during election periods.