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Supervisors request work session on public records procedures amid concerns about exemptions
Summary
Supervisors requested a public records work session to address repeated public records requests, perceived overuse of exemptions (attorney‑client privilege, security), and inconsistent fees; board requested public presentation and possible executive session follow‑up with county attorney.
Supervisors asked staff to schedule a work session to examine public records procedures after concerns that some departments or individuals may be improperly withholding records by asserting exemptions such as attorney‑client privilege or security exemptions.
One supervisor asked for clearer policies about which requests require county attorney review and whether proactively publishing commonly requested documents on the county website could reduce repeated public records requests. The supervisor suggested a public‑records index or posted copies of frequently requested materials so the public could retrieve them without submitting requests.
Board members also asked staff to review fees charged for public records requests. A supervisor said he had heard that some fees seemed “pretty outrageous” and asked that fees be examined and reported.
The Board discussed inviting a citizen who has litigated public records issues to present perspectives at the proposed work session, followed by an executive session with county counsel to review legal issues. County staff agreed to explore formats and report back on scheduling and content for the work session.
