register

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140) gives the public the right to request access to government records. The Carbondale Park District is committed to transparency and open communication with our community. Below are answers to common questions about making a FOIA request.

How do I make a FOIA request?

FOIA requests must be submitted in writing.

You may submit your request:

By mail or in person
Carbondale Park District – FOIA Officer
1115 W. Sycamore St.
Carbondale, IL 62901

By email
Email the FOIA Officer

For email submissions, please include your request in the body of the email (not as an attachment).

 

What should I include in my request?

The more specific your request, the easier it is for us to locate the records. To help us respond quickly, please include:

  • Your name
  • A mailing address or email address for our reply
  • A clear description of the records you are requesting
  • Whether the request is for commercial purposes (if applicable)

Who is the FOIA officer at the Carbondale Park District?

Trey Anderson
FOIA Officer
Carbondale Park District
1115 W. Sycamore St.
Carbondale, IL 62901

How long does it take to receive a response?

The District generally responds within 5 business days of receiving a written request, as required by Illinois law. If additional time is permitted under the Act, we will notify you in writing and explain the reason for the extension.

Does the Carbondale Park District charge fees?

Most FOIA requests can be provided electronically, and we typically do not charge fees.

If paper copies are requested:

  • The first 50 black-and-white pages are free.
  • Additional black-and-white pages may be charged up to $0.15 per page.
  • Color copies or unusually sized documents may be charged at the actual cost of reproduction.
  • Certified copies (if requested) are $1.00 per record.

Fees, if applicable, must be paid before copies are released.

What if my request is denied?

If a request is denied in whole or in part, you will receive a written explanation.

You may request a review by the Illinois Attorney General’s Public Access Counselor:

Public Access Counselor
Office of the Illinois Attorney General
500 S. 2nd Street
Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: 877-299-3642
Email: public.access@ilag.gov

You also have the right to seek judicial review under Illinois law.

If you have questions about submitting a request, please contact the FOIA Officer using the information above.