July 27, 1999



Telfair County Board of Commissioners
713 Telfair Avenue
McRay, Georgia 31055

Dear Members of the Board:

     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 Telfair County Board of Commissioners allegedly conducts closed "executive sessions" at the beginning of each of its meetings.  This practice is a direct violation of O.C.G.A. sections 50-14-1, 50-14-3, and 50-14-4, which in pertinent part provide that such meetings must be open to the public in their entirety, providing the public with the records, notice of time and place, access to minutes, etc. that are outlined in the Georgia Open Meetings Act.

     Citizens here allege that the  Board makes decisions regarding budget matters, equipment purchaess and other such matters during "executive sessions" that are also closed to the public.  This constitutes further violation of the Open Meetings Act.

     According to Georgia law, even meetings that are closed to the public must be accompanied by the specific reasons for such closure and must provide the names of the members present and those voting for closure.  Further, according to O.C.G.A. section 50-14-6, any person who knowingly and willfully conducts or participates in a meeting in violation of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction could be fined up to $500.00.

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

                                                     Sincerely,



                                                     Hollie Manheimer
                                                     Executive Director

cc:  GFAF Board of Directors