A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the City of Waterloo on October 28, 2024, seeking comprehensive details about unpaid parking violations. The request was made by SW Illinois News, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
In the request, we asked for a list of all parking violations currently unpaid. This includes the name of the offender, their address, the amount due, violation date, and total due. The information is sought under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.
As a media organization, we are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We believe that we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals given our role in disseminating information.
The FOIA request serves as an important tool in maintaining transparency within government organizations and ensuring accountability among citizens who have outstanding parking violations. It is part of our ongoing efforts at SW Illinois News to keep our readers informed about local government affairs.