FOIA Request to City of East Saint Louis regarding new contracts or amendments on February 1, 2026.
A request was submitted by Metro East Sun, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. The request, made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), seeks access to records pertaining to new contracts and any amendments to existing contracts executed, approved, or effective during the immediately preceding calendar month.
The requested records include details such as the contract or amendment title, names of contracting parties, effective and approval dates, contract amounts or amended values, and descriptions of the goods or services covered. The aim is to gather information of public interest for dissemination to the public. The request specifies that it does not require the creation of new documents but is limited to records that currently exist.
Metro East Sun emphasizes its role in gathering and reporting news to the public as part of its professional responsibilities. Access to these public records is deemed essential for holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency. Given this role, they believe they are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
The requestor is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a Missouri-based non-profit organization that assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. They leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to promote transparency in government actions. More information about their work can be found on their website here.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
