Avula to introduce ordinance that would formalize Richmond FOIA Library
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond Mayor Danny Avula recently announced plans to introduce an ordinance for consideration that, if approved, would assist in formalizing existing plans to establish a Freedom of Information (FOIA) Library.
Virginia FOIA law allows individuals or organizations to request that public records from local or state governments be compiled and released. It’s considered a “sunshine law,” named such because it shines a metaphorical light on governing agencies.
According to a release from the city on Friday, Oct. 10, the proposed ordinance will expand upon work that was initiated in 2024 involving making all documents the city releases via FOIA available online. This would include the city's water crisis FOIA library, which was launched back in April.
The goal of the libraries is to "strengthen government transparency and accountability by expanding public access to city records," the release said.
A rubric for the types of records that will be included versus excluded in the newly proposed FOIA Library was also provided by the city.
- Documents that are eligible for inclusion:
- Releasable responsive records (some may include legally determined redactions) that are:
- Requested by two or more requesters
- Of public interest
- Central to government operational accountability
- Releasable responsive records (some may include legally determined redactions) that are:
- Documents that are not eligible for inclusion:
- Records containing strong privacy, security or confidential information that could
- Endanger an individual's safety
- Compromise a minor
- Records will not be posted if redaction is insufficient to protect from misuse
- Records containing strong privacy, security or confidential information that could
"As a public health doctor and now, as Mayor, open communication and transparency have always been the bedrock of my work," Avula said. "This initiative is an extension of those values. I’m excited about the FOIA Library because it will make it simpler for residents to access information. It’s another step toward earning and keeping the public’s trust, strengthening accountability and showing our commitment to open government.”
The expected date for the ordinance's introduction is Tuesday, Oct. 14.
