FAQs

What is FOIA?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a state statute that provides the public the right to access government documents and records. The premise behind FOIA is that the public has a right to know what the government is doing. The law provides that a person can ask a public body for a copy of its records on a specific subject and the public body must provide those records, unless there is an exemption in the statute that protects those records from disclosure (for example: records containing information concerning trade secrets or personal privacy).

Who is subject to FOIA?

Public bodies are subject to FOIA. The judiciary is not subject to FOIA, but court records and proceedings generally are open to the public.

Who can file a FOIA request?

Anyone. Any person, group, association, corporation, firm, partnership or organization has the right to file a FOIA request.

What is the procedure for requesting public records?

Any request for public records in accordance with the FOIA and this Policy, shall be submitted to the Chief FOIA Officer, or any other FOIA Officer so designated.

How will I receive the documents and records I request?

Make sure you add at least one method of contact in order for a member of the Village staff to get your requests to you. If you prefer the records to be printed, a cost could accumulate depending on the size of the request.

When can I expect a response back from my FOIA request?

The Village of Romeoville must comply with or deny a request for records within 5 business days after the date of receipt unless one or more reasons for an extension of time is provided for in Sections 3(d) of the FOIA are invoked by the Village. If the request is for commercial use, the Village may take up to 21 business days to respond.