Disclaimer & Rules

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140) grants the public access to government records, subject to certain exemptions. The Village of South Roxana complies with FOIA while ensuring the efficient operation of government services.

FOIA Request Process
  • Requests must be submitted in writing, but no specific form is required.
  • The five-business-day response period begins the next business day after the request is received (excluding weekends and holidays).
  • Commercial requests will be processed within 21 business days.
  • The Village may extend the response period by up to five additional business days when necessary, with written notice provided to the requester.
Limitations on FOIA Requests

FOIA is designed to provide access to existing records and does not require the Village to:

  • Create new records,
  • Conduct research or answer questions,
  • Interpret documents for requesters.

The Village of South Roxana has a single clerk handling multiple responsibilities, and excessive, repetitive, or vague requests may delay processing. Under 5 ILCS 140/3(g), the Village may deny requests that are unduly burdensome, meaning they require excessive staff time, disrupt essential services, or lack reasonable specificity.

Fees & Costs
  • The first 50 pages of black-and-white copies (letter or legal size) are free.
  • Additional pages: $0.15 per page.
  • Actual costs apply for color copies, oversized documents, electronic records, or certified copies.
  • A fee waiver may be requested with a written statement explaining how disclosure serves the public interest.
Exemptions & Denials

Certain records are exempt from disclosure under 5 ILCS 140/7, including, but not limited to:

  • Personal privacy protections (e.g., medical records, private financial details).
  • Law enforcement records that would interfere with investigations or endanger public safety.
  • Preliminary drafts, confidential communications, and attorney-client privileged materials.

Other exemptions may apply under state or federal law. If a request is denied, the Village will provide a written explanation citing the applicable exemption(s). Requestors may appeal a denial by contacting the Illinois Attorney General’s Public Access Counselor (PAC) or by seeking judicial review in circuit court.

Submission Instructions
  • Clearly describe the records sought to avoid delays.
  • The Village will process requests as efficiently as possible. Large or complex requests may require additional time.