Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives you the right to request public records from any government body — the township, the county, or any public agency. You do not need to explain why you want the records, and the government must respond within 5 business days.
What You Can Request
FOIA covers most government records, including:
- Meeting minutes and agendas
- Budgets and financial reports
- Contracts and agreements
- Correspondence (emails, letters)
- Permits and applications
- Personnel records (with some exemptions)
Some records are exempt from FOIA, including certain law enforcement investigation files, attorney-client communications, and personal information protected by privacy laws.
How to Submit a Request
- Decide who has the records. Township records (zoning, local meetings, township finances) go to the Township Clerk. County records (court records, county budgets, sheriff records) go to the County FOIA Coordinator.
- Write your request. Be as specific as possible — dates, names, and subject matter help staff find what you need quickly. You can use the FOIA Request Form or write your own letter.
- Submit your request:
- Township: Mail, deliver, or email to Clerk Carol Majewski at (989) 588-9841 ext. 2
- County: Email FOIA@clareco.net or call (989) 539-2588
Timelines and Fees
- Response deadline: 5 business days. The government may extend this by 10 additional business days with written notice.
- Fees: You may be charged for copies (typically $0.10/page), labor to find records (hourly rate), and postage. You can request a detailed cost itemization before paying.
- Fee waivers: The first $20 of search costs is waived. Indigent individuals and nonprofit organizations may qualify for reduced fees.
If Your Request Is Denied
- You will receive a written denial explaining the reason and the specific FOIA exemption cited.
- Appeal to the head of the public body within 180 days.
- If the appeal is denied, you can file a lawsuit in Circuit Court.