FOIA Request to Otsego County Election Division Regarding Upcoming Election Candidates on February 5, 2025.
North Michigan News, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, has submitted a request under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq. for records pertaining to the upcoming spring elections.
We have asked for a list of all candidates running in the forthcoming election, with specific details including their first, middle and last names, the office they are vying for, jurisdiction of said office and their party affiliation.
In addition to these details, we have also requested contact information for each candidate which includes their address, phone number and email address.
As an organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. In light of our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
This move underscores our commitment towards ensuring transparency in electoral processes by keeping the public informed about who is running for office in their localities. It is part of our ongoing efforts to hold public institutions accountable and provide comprehensive coverage of local governmental affairs.