A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Upson County Election Department in Georgia on October 29, 2024. The request, filed by us at Macon Times, sought detailed information about the methods being used for vote counting in the upcoming elections.
The specific records requested under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50.18.70 et seq., include a comprehensive list of methods employed for vote counting. In case manual counting is involved, we have also asked for an estimated number of personnel who will be working on election night.
As a media organization dedicated to providing accurate and comprehensive news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe that access to such public records is crucial. This information will enable us to fulfill our professional responsibilities more effectively which include holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency.
We have also stated our eligibility for a fee waiver as a media professional given our role in gathering and disseminating news to the public.
This FOIA request is part of our ongoing commitment to keep our readers informed about local government operations and procedures, particularly those related to electoral processes.
