Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

What is FOIA?

FOIA is the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides public access to government documents and records. Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), records in possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon written request. Public records are any records, reports, forms, writings, books, papers, maps, photographs, electronic data processing records, recorded information and all other documentary materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared, or having been or being used, received, possessed or under the control of any public body.

The Act does, however, recognize that in order to enable public bodies to perform certain governmental functions properly and to protect personal privacy, some records and information need to be kept confidential. Records that are not subject to release via the FOIA process include confidential and trade secret information.

FOIA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens after I submit a request?
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act requires agencies to respond within five working days of receipt of a request. A five-day extension is allowed with written notification to the requester.

If the requested records are 50 pages, or less, in length, the pages will be copied and mailed to the requester. If the records exceed 50 pages, the requester will be informed of the duplication cost. What are the costs for duplication? The cost is $.15 per sheet above fifty sheets.

If you have questions about filing a FOIA request, please contact the Office at 815.625.3886 and ask for a Freedom of Information Officer.

What are examples of records that can be requested?
Generally the most common requests would be for copies of the following: District 301 financial records, budget, audit, board policies, collective bargaining agreement, employee handbooks, etc. Other allowable records may be requested and inspected.

Many generally requested items such as board policies, board minutes, and collective bargaining agreements may be found on the District 301 website.

Does the Act require the production of new documents?
As a general principle, public bodies are not required to create new records to respond to requests for information, if the body does not ordinarily maintain the requested information in record form.