Commission reviews proposal to adopt uniform public records procedures under Act 2024-278

County counsel and staff presented a draft resolution and supporting materials to align Montgomery County's public records response process with Act 2024-278 passed by the Alabama Legislature.

Staff said the packet includes a flowchart, form letters, a proposed resolution to adopt the procedures, and a separate resolution to designate two public officers to receive and coordinate open-records requests. "Act number 2024 2 78 that was passed by the, Alabama legislature," a staff presenter said, and the proposed policy "will conform to the act and bring us in compliance."

Why it matters: The state designated a uniform policy for responding to public-records requests; adopting a local resolution would formalize who coordinates requests, standard response timelines and use of template letters.

Details and next steps: Staff suggested designating two primary contacts (the staff packet referenced Regina and Tammy as likely coordinators) to act as contact points who would coordinate with departments that hold requested records. The presenters said the county has received at least one open-records request and the resolutions would formalize process and responsibilities. Commissioners asked if the named staff were already performing the work; staff replied the resolution would formalize coordination but that other personnel would still provide the records.

Outcome: Commissioners directed staff to place the resolution and designation of public officers on the next formal agenda for adoption.

Ending: Staff will bring the finalized resolution and designated officers to a formal meeting for possible adoption to comply with state requirements.