Open Records Requests

Requests for Public Information and Documents under the Iowa Open Records Law and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The City of Ames is committed to an open and transparent government. The City adheres to the Iowa Open Records Act and Federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). It is the policy of the City of Ames to allow the public easy and expedited access to all records that are covered in the Open Records Act of Iowa and the FOIA.

Most records requests can be fulfilled immediately, but some records will require additional review and research. All requests that necessitate additional research and review will receive a reply within ten (10) business days. Iowa Code allows for twenty (20) calendar days of delay to determine if a record is confidential.

State law permits certain records classified as confidential to be considered exempt from the public records requests. Confidential records include, but are not limited to, medical records, employee-related files, documents concerning litigation or claims, and names or addresses of complainants. Confidential records may be withheld, and confidential information within an otherwise open record may be redacted prior to a record's release for public examination and copying.

Requests may be directed to an employee in any office, and may be made in person, over the phone, or via email. All requests may be made without identification, reason, or motive for the request.