The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) intends that all persons shall be informed about government affairs and official acts so that they may fully participate in the democratic process. 

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) intends that all persons shall be informed about government affairs and official acts so that they may fully participate in the democratic process. Under the provisions of FOIA and based on the principle of openness in government, Alpena County and its departments will make information and records described as “public records” available to all persons entitled to full and complete information to the greatest extent possible. Alpena County may, however, withhold public records as permitted by certain exemptions and exclusions in the FOIA statute.

Public Summary of FOIA Procedures and Guidelines (PDF)

Written Request

You may submit a written request for public record(s) in the possession of the various departments of Alpena County. Your request must sufficiently describe the requested public record with relevant details such as names, dates, and department retaining the records, so that the FOIA Coordinator is able to find the requested record within a reasonable amount of time and with a reasonable amount of effort.

Submitting a Request

Requests for records may be submitted by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery. Choose the appropriate department retaining the record, fill in the details of your request, and send it directly to the department as indicated on the list below: 

FOIA Request for Public Records Form (PDF)

Response Time

Your public records request will be processed within five (5) business days unless Alpena County determines that a ten (10) day extension is necessary. A written request submitted by facsimile or email is not received by a public body’s FOIA Coordinator until 1 business day after the electronic transmission is made.

Inspections

At your written request, Alpena County will allow you a reasonable opportunity to inspect nonexempt public records during normal business hours. A fee may be charged if it is necessary to assemble the public records, supervise the inspection of the records or to make a copy of a public record

Fee

Alpena County may require you to reimburse it for the expenses associated with fulfilling a FOIA request for public records. 

Michigan Freedom of Information Act (PDF)