Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
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In an effort to promote transparency, the Town of Awendaw strives to provide access to public records as quickly as possible and, in most cases, at no cost. Pursuant to the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), any individual may request copies of public records from the Town of Awendaw by filing a written records request.
Within 10 business days of receiving a records request, the town will provide a written determination of whether the records are publicly available and subject to release under the requirements of the FOIA (20 days for records which are more than 24 months old). If the request is granted, records will be furnished in paper or electronic format (or made available for inspection) no later than 30 calendar days from the date upon which the determination is provided (35 calendar days for records which are more than 24 months old). While these time frames are the maximum allowed by state law, the town will make every reasonable effort to respond to records requests as quickly as possible. Requesting Public Records Written requests may be submitted online, via mail or email, or delivered in person. Written requests should be as specific as possible regarding details (names, dates, locations, topics, etc.) to ensure an accurate response.
The town has provided a Records Request Form for the public’s convenience; however, use of this form is not required in order to make a written request.
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Fees
The town is authorized by state law to collect fees in order to recover the cost of public resources spent in fulfilling a records request. Such charges shall not exceed the actual cost of searching for and/or providing access to or copies of the requested documents.
Documents may be furnished without charge or at a reduced rate in instances when the Town Administrator determines that a waiver or reduction of the fee is in the public interest, or when the cost of furnishing the records is nominal in nature.
Fees will generally apply to records requests which are particularly voluminous or time-consuming in nature. In such instances, a cost estimate will be provided to the requestor in advance, and a deposit may be required prior to fulfilling the request.
There is no fee to review or inspect public documents which are subject to release under FOIA at Town Hall during regular business hours.
Documents may be furnished without charge or at a reduced rate in instances when the Town Administrator determines that a waiver or reduction of the fee is in the public interest, or when the cost of furnishing the records is nominal in nature.
Fees will generally apply to records requests which are particularly voluminous or time-consuming in nature. In such instances, a cost estimate will be provided to the requestor in advance, and a deposit may be required prior to fulfilling the request.
There is no fee to review or inspect public documents which are subject to release under FOIA at Town Hall during regular business hours.
Commercial Solicitation
Pursuant to §30-2-50(A) of the South Carolina Code of Laws, a person or private entity shall not knowingly obtain or use personal information obtained from a state agency, a local government, or other political subdivision of the state for commercial solicitation directed to any person in the State of South Carolina.
