South Cook News

FOIA Request to City of Hickory Hills regarding a list of city employees on August 21, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted by South Cook News to the City of Hickory Hills on August 21, 2025. The request seeks detailed information about city employees, including their full names, sex, race, job titles, departments or divisions, annual salaries or hourly rates if applicable, and hire or start dates. This request was made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.

South Cook News is a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. As part of its commitment to transparency and accountability in public institutions, South Cook News has requested this information in an electronic format. The organization believes that access to these public records is crucial for fulfilling its role in informing the public and holding government entities accountable.

The requestor is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit corporation based in Missouri. This coalition assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies by utilizing Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about the coalition can be found on their website at https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.

In Illinois, pet owners must have a license for certain pets like dogs and comply with state and local regulations as defined in the Illinois Animal Welfare Act. These licenses involve a fee and must be renewed periodically to support animal control and health programs.

We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.