Public Records
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
How to request public records under the Illinois FOIA
FOIA Officer
FOIA Officer
Williamsville Police Department
124 S. Walnut St
Williamsville, IL 62693
Phone: (217) 566-3634
How to Submit a FOIA Request
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140) provides the public with the right to access government records. You may submit a FOIA request to the Williamsville Police Department using any of the following methods:
- Online: Use our online FOIA submission form for the fastest processing.
- By Mail: Send a written request to the FOIA Officer at the address above.
- In Person: Visit the police department during business hours to submit your request.
- By Email: Email your request to the FOIA Officer.
Your request should include a detailed description of the records you are seeking, including relevant dates, names, and any other identifying information that will help us locate the records.
Fee Schedule
In accordance with the Illinois FOIA (5 ILCS 140/6), the following fees may apply to your request:
Fee waivers may be requested if the records are used to access information to which the requester is entitled under law or if the request is made for a purpose that the public body determines primarily benefits the general public. See 5 ILCS 140/6(c).
Response Timeline
Initial Response: 5 Business Days
The department will respond to your FOIA request within 5 business days after receipt. The response will either provide the requested records, deny the request with an explanation, or notify you of an extension.
Extension: Up to 5 Additional Business Days
The response time may be extended by up to 5 additional business days for reasons specified in the Act, including the need to search for and retrieve records from field offices, voluminous requests, or the need to consult with another public body.
Appeal Process
If your request is denied, you may file a request for review with the Illinois Attorney General's Public Access Counselor within 60 days of the denial.
Legal References
FOIA requests to the Williamsville Police Department are governed by the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. This Act establishes the rights of individuals to access public records and the obligations of public bodies to respond to such requests.
Certain records may be exempt from disclosure under Section 7 of the Act (5 ILCS 140/7), including but not limited to records related to ongoing criminal investigations, personal privacy, and law enforcement operations.
Ready to Submit a FOIA Request?
Use our online form for the fastest processing of your request.
Submit FOIA Request Online