📄 What Is a Public Record?
A public record is any document, recording, or data created, received, or maintained by a government agency that documents official business, decisions, or actions.
In Delaware County, this includes:
· Meeting minutes and agendas
· Budgets and expenditure reports
· Contracts and agreements
· Emails and correspondence related to public business
· Inspection reports, permits, and licenses
· Property records and assessment data
· Police reports (non-investigative)
· And much more
Public records exist to ensure transparency, accountability, and trust between the government and the people it serves.
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❓ Why Do I Have to Ask for It?
Public records are legally public—but that doesn’t mean they’re all posted online. Here’s why you often need to make a formal request:
· Volume & Organization
Governments create thousands of records daily. Not every document can be proactively published.
· Legal Protections & Privacy
Some records contain sensitive information. Requests allow officials to review and redact exempt details before release.
· Specificity
Your request helps narrow down exactly what you’re looking for so staff can locate the right documents efficiently.
· Cost & Tracking
A formal process ensures fair handling, possible fee recovery, and creates a paper trail for accountability.
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Bottom line: You have a right to access public records in Delaware County, but asking ensures you get the right information—accurately, lawfully, and efficiently.