Freedom of Information Request (FOIL)

Copies of City documents are subject to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) as specified in Section 2-105 of the City Charter and may be requested by the public. Anyone requesting documents may do so online, or by completing a Freedom of Information Request form (PDF) and submitting it via email, by fax 845-451-4239, or you may file your request in person with the City Chamberlain’s Office.

Freedom of Information Request Portal

The Records Access Officer, who is responsible for handling Freedom of Information requests is the City Chamberlain and all requests are submitted to the City Chamberlain’s Office. Section 89(3)(a) of the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requires that an agency provide written acknowledgement of the receipt of a FOIL request within five (5) days.

City of Poughkeepsie
City Chamberlain
62 Civic Center Plaza
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-451-4276 Office
845-451-4239 Fax
Email the City Chamberlain

Denial of Access to Records

Denial of access to records shall be made in writing or online stating the reason therefore and advising the requester of the right to appeal to the individual or body established to determine appeals.

If requested records or a notices of the availability date is not provided promptly, such failure shall also be deemed a denial of access.

The following person or persons or body shall determine appeals regarding denial of access to records under the Freedom of Information Law:

FOIL Appeals Officer
Commissioner of Finance
62 Civic Center Plaza
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-451-4027 Office
845-451-4028 Fax

Fees

Fees for access to public records are available from the City Chamberlain’s office which is the official copy. They are listed here for convenience:

Item Fee
Certification Fee $0.25 per copy
Photocopies not exceeding 11 inches by 17 inches $0.25 per page
Copies of records other than photocopies which are less than 11 inches by 17 inches (ex: maps) Actual cost of reproduction
Color reproductions not exceeding 11 inches by 17 inches $0.25 per page
Double-sided copies $0.50 per page

Committee on Open Government

The New York State Committee on Open Government oversees and advises the government, public, and news media on Freedom of Information, Open Meetings, and Personal Privacy Protection Laws. The Committee offers guidance in response to phone inquiries, prepares written legal advisory opinions, and provides training to government and other interested groups.