Freedom of Information Act

Overview of FOIA Policy

The City of Inkster complies with Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), ensuring that all persons (except those incarcerated) have access to full information regarding government affairs and official acts. The City Clerk serves as the FOIA Coordinator (FC) and is responsible for processing all requests.


How to Submit a Request

Requests for public records must be made in writing and can be submitted in person, by mail, email, facsimile, or courier.

  • Required Information: All requests must include the requester's full name, a USPS-compliant address, and a valid telephone number or email.

  • Description: The request must sufficiently describe the record to enable the City to locate it.

  • Mailing Address: > City of Inkster

    Attn: FOIA Coordinator 
    26215 Trowbridge St.
    Inkster, MI 48141     


City Response Timeline

The City will respond within five business days of receiving a request. Requests sent via email or fax are deemed received on the following business day. Potential responses include:

  • Granting the request in full or in part.
  • Denying the request with an explanation of why the record is exempt or does not exist.
  • Extension Notice: Issuing a 10-business-day extension due to the nature of the request.
  • Website Notification: Informing the requester that the record is available for free on the City's website.


Fees and Deposits

The City charges fees to cover the costs of searching, examining, and duplicating records to avoid undue burden on the general fund.

  • Cost Calculation: * Labor: Charged in 15-minute increments based on the hourly wage of the lowest-paid employee capable of the task.
    • Paper Copies: Standard letter or legal-sized pages cost $0.10 per sheet.
    • Postage: Actual cost of mailing using the most economical means.
  • Good-Faith Deposits: * If the total fee is estimated to exceed $50.00, a 50% deposit is required before processing.
    • If a deposit is not received within 48 days, the request is considered abandoned.
  • Discounts: A $20.00 discount is available for individuals who provide an affidavit of indigence or for specific non-profit organizations.

Appeals Process

If a request is denied or if the processing fee is considered excessive, the requester has the right to appeal:

  1. To the Mayor: Submit a written appeal identifying the reasons for reversal or fee reduction. The Mayor must respond within 10 business days.

  2. To Circuit Court: Requestors may also file a civil action in the Third Circuit Court to challenge a denial (within 180 days) or a fee determination (within 45 days of the Mayor's decision).