A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the City of South Beloit regarding unpaid parking violations on October 28, 2024. The request was made by us at Rockford Sun, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request specifically sought records of all parking violations currently unpaid within the city. The details requested include the name of the offender, their address, the amount due for each violation, the date of each violation, and the total amount due from each offender.
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. These responsibilities include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.
We continue to wait for a response from the City of South Beloit regarding this matter.