South West Illinois News

FOIA Request to City of Chester regarding vendor payment registers on November 10, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted by SW Illinois News to the City of Chester, Illinois, seeking access to specific financial records. The request, sent on November 10, 2025, asks for copies of existing vendor payment registers maintained by the city. These records cover the period from January 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025.

The requested documents should include details such as the names of vendors paid by the city, dates and amounts of payments made, and a description or purpose of goods and services provided. The request emphasizes that it seeks only existing records and does not require the creation of new documents.

The FOIA request is part of SW Illinois News's commitment to comprehensive news coverage on local governmental affairs. Access to these public records is crucial for media professionals in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. The requester has also applied for a fee waiver due to their role in disseminating information as a member of the media.

Additionally, the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this organization can be found at https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.

In Illinois, pet owners must have a license for certain pets like dogs and comply with state and local regulations. These licenses are defined in the Illinois Animal Welfare Act and must comply with both state rules and local ordinances. Licensing supports animal control programs and ensures pets receive necessary vaccinations against diseases like rabies.

Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.