Public Records Request

Records Requests

The City Clerk's Office manages the legislative history of the city, and maintains and preserves official city documents and records in accordance with Federal and State legal mandates and local policies.

The Missouri Sunshine Law provides that most records maintained by public entities are open for inspection and/or copy by individuals.

Board of Aldermen Minutes, Resolutions, and Ordinances are accessible online. Board of Aldermen records prior to online recordkeeping are retained in the City Clerk's office. Please submit a Public Records Request to obtain these records.

Questions regarding open records should be directed to the City Clerk's Office.

Applicable Fees

The Missouri Sunshine Law authorizes public agencies to charge fees for providing access to or furnishing copies of public records. This fee may be requested in advance and may include the cost of staff time required to make the information available as well as the cost of copying or reproducing the records.

Delayed or Denied Requests

Although every attempt will be made to provide the information requested in a timely manner, some requests may be delayed or denied if:

  • The request is unclear and should be submitted in more detail

  • Legal issues must be addressed before the records are released

  • The requested records are archived or stored off site

  • The volume of records requested is large and will take time to duplicate

  • The requested records do not exist

  • The requested records are exempt from disclosure by law

  • The established fee has not yet bene collected

Public Record Exceptions

The Missouri Sunshine Law

The Missouri Sunshine Law recognizes that some records contain information that is private in nature. For this reason, the act lists a number of exceptions for records that are closed, including:

  • Legal actions, causes of action, or litigation (except that votes, minutes, and settlement agreements must be opened to the public on final disposition, unless ordered closed by a court)

  • Leasing, purchase, or sale of real estate where public knowledge might adversely affect the amount paid in the transaction

  • Hiring, firing, discipling, or promoting a particular employee

  • Welfare cases of identifiable individuals

  • Software codes for electronic data processing

  • Individually identifiable personnel records

  • Records related to existing or proposed security systems

  • Records that are protected from disclosure by other laws

How to Request a Public Record

Record Requests

To request a public record, please utilize the following steps:

  • Check with the City Clerk's Office to determine whether or not the information you need is available

  • Submit your request for information in writing or fill out the Records Request Form. You are not required to submit the request in writing or use the form, but it helps clarify information and negate miscommunication. Make sure your request is as specific as possible so that it may be filled quickly and completely.

  • Most records will be produced within three (3) business days from the time the request is received. If the request must be delayed or denied, a written explanation for the delay or denial will be sent within three (3) business days.