A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the City Of Palos Heights Finance Department on October 25, 2024. The request was made by South Cook News, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request sought specific records related to sales tax collected from retailers in the city since January 1, 204. The requested data includes monthly sales tax collections compared to projections, the number of active retail locations paying sales tax each month, and the names of each retailer along with their reported gross retail sales for each month.
South Cook News emphasized its role as a media organization in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is deemed essential for fulfilling professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given this role in disseminating information, South Cook News has also requested a fee waiver as a media professional. The organization stands ready to answer any questions regarding this request.