July 3, 2007

Ms. Ann Webb, Executive Director

Flint River Consolidated Housing Authority

P.O. Box 67

Montezuma, Georgia 31063

Dear Director Webb:

I am writing on behalf of the Georgia First Amendment Foundation. We are an organization that seeks to advance the cause of open government and monitors freedom of information issues throughout this state.

It was brought to our attention that the housing authority may not be complying properly with open records requests. As you know, pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 (b), “[a]ll public records of an agency… shall be open for personal inspection by any citizen of this state at a reasonable time and place.” Moreover, the Act requires that a response be provided within three (3) business days. See O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70(f).

As you also know, the purpose of the open records act is to encourage public access to information in order that the public can evaluate the expenditure of public funds and the efficient and proper functioning of its institutions, but also to foster confidence in government through openness to the public. See Athens Observers, Inc. v Anderson, 245 Ga. 63 (1980).

I have enclosed a copy of “Georgia’s Sunshine Laws: A Citizen’s Guide to Open Government,” 3^rd edition, which discusses both the open records and meetings acts as well as other open government issues pertinent to your work. Similarly, this foundation would be pleased to visit with you and conduct a workshop on the mechanics of both of the open government laws.

We would appreciate an explanation of what will be done to remedy any violations that go against the interests of the public. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Hollie Manheimer

Cc: GFAF Board of Directors