FOIA Request to Harvey City Mayor regarding law firm contracts and invoices on June 18, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the office of the Harvey City Mayor on June 18, 2025. The request seeks access to public records concerning all contracts with law firms engaged by the city and all invoices submitted by these firms over the past six months. The request was made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, with a preference for receiving the information in electronic format.
The request was filed by South Cook News, a media organization dedicated to covering local governmental affairs comprehensively and accurately. The requester emphasized the importance of accessing public records as part of their role in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency for the public. They also requested a fee waiver, citing their status as a media professional.
Additionally, it was noted that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating government agencies through FOIA and Sunshine Laws. More information about this coalition can be found on their website at https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.