A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Decatur County Election Department on October 29, 2024. The request, made by SW Georgia News, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, sought details about the methods being used to count votes in the upcoming elections.
In line with Georgia's Open Records Act § 50.18.70 et seq., we asked for this information preferably in an electronic format. Specifically, we requested a list of methods they are using to count votes. If manual counting is involved, we also asked for an estimated number of people who will be working on election night.
As members of the media at SW Georgia News, our role involves gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. We believe that given our role in disseminating information, we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We eagerly await a response from the Decatur County Election Department and will continue our efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in our local government affairs.
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