Thomas Hennick, the public education officer with the Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission, returns to the podcast to offer his informed opinions on a bunch or real-world open government issues faced by Valley Indy reporter Eugene Driscoll.
Press play to listen!
Among the questions asked:
QUESTION 1
Is there any requirement in the FOI Act that forces towns to post agendas online, such as on the municipal website?
QUESTION 2
Is there any requirement that forces towns to post agenda packets online? By agenda packets, I mean the supporting documentation for the items listed on an agenda.
Was there a requirement during the pandemic?
QUESTION 3
This question has two parts.
We hear the word ‘personnel matter’ used a lot by towns as a reason they can’t comment on an issue.
First, are personnel files public records in the state of Connecticut?
Second, if possible, what is the procedure the town is supposed to follow when it comes to reviewing requests for personnel files?
QUESTION 4
Let’s say you file a complaint against a town or city based on what you believe is a violation of the FOI Act. You’re assigned a hearing officer and, prior to a hearing, the town offers to hold an FOI workshop for all town employees if you agree to drop the complaint. You think it’s reasonable offer, so you drop the complaint. BUT WHAT IF THE TOWN NEVER FOLLOWS THROUGH ON ITS PROMISE? WHAT RECOURSE DOES A CITIZEN HAVE?
