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1. What is a Public Record?

A Pubic Record includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of City business.

2. Are all records available to the public?

No.  RCW (Revised Code of Washington) 42.56 contains a list of records that are exempt from disclosure, and there are additional records exempt from disclosure cited in various other chapters of the RCW. 

3. What is "inspection" of a public record?

A person is allowed to view public records free-of-charge during normal business hours of the department where the record is held.

4. What is the cost for a copy of a public record?

Please refer to the City's Fee Schedule; charges vary depending on how the records are produced.

5. Must a public records request be fulfilled within 5 days?

No.  However, the City must acknowledge receipt of the request within 5 days and provide one of the following responses:

• Provide the record (s)
• Acknowledge the request and provide a reasonable timeline as to when the record(s) will be available
• Provide a link or internet address to the location of the record/document
• Seek clarification of document(s) requested and provide a timeline when the record(s) will be available
• Deny the request

 

6. How do I request a public record?

The City Clerk serves as the City's Public Records Officer.  Information to request public records may be found on the City Clerk page of our website at: 

Public Records Request

Additional methods to deliver a request for public records:

• Fax: 360-342-5050
• Email: to City Clerk's Office
• Mail: 109 SW 1st St., Ste. 221
  Battle Ground, WA 98604
• In Person: 109 SW 1st St; 2nd floor reception desk

7. Are public record requests confidential?

No.  Once a request has been received, the request itself becomes a public record.

8. May I submit a request anonymously?

The city will need your contact information for staff to to communicate with you regarding your request.

9. Must copies of records be provided at no charge for non-profit organizations or indigent customers?

No.  The Public Records Act allows a city to recover a reasonable charge for providing copies of public records.  

10. Can I obtain a list of citizens or customers for the purpose of marketing my business?

No.  RCW 42.56.070 prohibits the access of lists of individuals for commercial purposes.