In September 2024, I submitted a Freedom of Information Law request to Southampton Village. I followed up nine times and even filed an administrative appeal with the village administration and/or the Board of Trustees — yet I have not received the documentation. It’s been over a year now!
This is what is written on the New York Open Government Website, (opengovernment.ny.gov/freedom-information-law: “The Freedom of Information Law, effective January 1, 1978, reaffirms your right to know how your government operates. It provides rights of access to records reflective of governmental decisions and policies that affect the lives of every New Yorker.”
Obviously, this law is vital to democracy. What message is the current administration sending to us by not responding? Shouldn’t our government be transparent and let the citizens and taxpayers know what is going on by following FOIL?
I thank Southampton Village Trustee Ed Simioni for delivering on his promise of transparency and raising questions about the handling of FOIL requests.
Kimberly Allan
Southampton Village
Allan is a former Southampton Village trustee — Ed.
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