Purpose: The Children’s Services Fund of Jackon County’s policy is to serve the community by being open and transparent in our actions. We comply with the federal Freedom of Information Act and the Missouri Sunshine Law, Chapter 610, RSMo as it pertains to records requests. We make every effort to share information when asked.
Policy
A. Custodian of Records
The Custodian of Records for the Children’s Services Fund of Jackson County is the Operations Manager. All records requests must be submitted in writing and can be made through CSF’s website, via email, or by regular mail.
B. Fees
- CSF may charge up to 10 cents per page for standard paper copies and the actual cost for larger or specialized documents (e.g., maps, photos, graphics).
- A reasonable fee may also be charged for the time spent searching for and preparing records, based on the hourly rate of the qualified staff member preparing the records. Fees will not exceed the actual cost of the search and preparation.
- If the requester prefers to view the records at CSF’s office, the Records Custodian will arrange access. However, fees for searching, preparing, and hosting the requester will still apply.
- Records may be provided at no charge or at a reduced fee if it’s determined that doing so is in the public interest, such as when the request will significantly enhance public understanding of the Fund’s operations and is not for commercial purposes.
- Once the fee is paid, records will be processed and provided promptly. If the actual cost exceeds the original estimate, the Custodian of Records will notify the requester. If the cost is lower, the requester will be refunded the difference.
C. Response
- The Custodian of Records will respond to the initial request within three business days, as required by law.
- If the request is large or complex and cannot be fulfilled within three days, the Custodian will inform the requester of the delay and provide an estimated completion date.
- If records are requested in a specific format, CSF will make every effort to accommodate, provided the format is available.
- If a request is denied, the Custodian will issue an explanation citing the legal provision for the denial, no later than three business days after receiving the request.
D. Public Records
Public records are considered as defined in Section 601.010 RSMo, with those exempted records set out in Section 610.021 RSMo.
E. Statue Prevails
This policy does not override or exclude any provisions of Chapter 610 RSMo, which will take precedence in all cases.
