Public Records Requests Detail
How do I request a public record?
In accordance with the Arizona Public Records Law A.R.S. § 39-121,
the City of Mesa makes public records available upon request to residents
and members of the media. Many requests for information are routine (i.e.
When does the parade start? When will the street construction be finished?
Who is the architect for the Mesa Arts Center?. . . ) Because this
information is readily available and the questions can be easily answered,
it is not necessary to fill out a Public Records Request Form.
However, if the request encompasses records from many different departments
or files, or a specific records from one particular file, we ask that the
requestor fill out a Public Records
Request Form:
Online or
PDF.
What is the purpose of a Public Records Request Form?
The Public Records Request Form aids both the employee and the requestor by
clarifying precisely what information is being requested, as well as documenting
what the requestor inspected or received from the City in return. The Public
Records Request Form also documents any payment received and notes whether or
not any information has been redacted (excluded) from the record due to
confidentiality.
In other words, the Public Records Request Form aids both the requester and
the City of Mesa by accurately documenting exactly what was requested and what
was received in return.
Are all records public records?
Although most information the City of Mesa houses is public and therefore
subject to disclosure, some information is considered to be confidential. As
custodians of confidential information, Mesa is obligated to protect such things
as:
Additional information may be considered confidential and
protected from disclosure depending upon the specific information requested and
the circumstances surrounding the request.
Where can I get a Public Records Request Form?
You can
submit the online form,
download a form, or if you prefer, you can call (480) 644-3770 and ask that a Public
Records Request Form be faxed or mailed to you.
Where do I submit the hard copy form?
Once you have filled the form out as completely as possible, e-mail it to
Kimberle.West@cityofmesa.org,
or fax it to (480) 644-5582.
How long will it take to receive a response?
As a rule, the City of Mesa responds to all requests for information as
quickly as possible. However, it may not always be possible to fill requests for
public records right away because records need to be reviewed first to see if
they contain confidential information.
Despite this, the City of Mesa strives to respond to public records requests
within 10 working days. However, if the request is very large in scope, spans
multiple departments or requires additional preparation or review, it may
require more time to process. If so, you will be notified.
Are public records free?
There is no charge to review public records at the municipal facility where
they are stored. However, there is a fee for photocopies, audio tapes, video
cassette tapes and other items. Visit the
Schedule of Fees & Charges.
Payment is due when the items are received.
Who can I call if I have questions or need additional information?
For more information regarding public records requests, please contact:
Kim West
480-644-4600
Kimberle.West@cityofmesa.org
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