A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Village of Mason, Wisconsin, seeking information about new voter registrations that occurred on November 5, 2024. The request was made by us at Northwoods Reporter on November 7, 2024.
As a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we requested these records under the Wisconsin Open Records Law, §19.31 et seq., preferably in electronic format. The specific information sought is a list of voters who registered to vote on November 5, 2024.
Our role as members of the media 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. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We await a response from the Village of Mason and will continue to work diligently in ensuring transparency in our local government's operations.