FOIA Request to Columbus County regarding new or amended contracts on January 16, 2026.
A request for public records was submitted to Columbus County by South North Carolina News under the North Carolina Public Records Law, G.S. ยง132-1. The request, dated January 16, 2026, seeks copies of all newly executed contracts or amendments entered into by the county between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. The focus is on three specific areas: public works, information technology or digital services, and consulting or professional services.
The request specifies that it applies only to existing records and asks for signed contracts or amendments executed during the specified time period. The requester has expressed a preference for receiving these documents in electronic format where possible.
South North Carolina News is a media organization dedicated to comprehensive and accurate news coverage of local governmental affairs. They emphasize that access to public records is crucial for their role in holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. In light of their function as a media outlet disseminating information to the public, they have requested a fee waiver for this request.
Additionally, the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization based in Missouri. This coalition supports media companies and advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this organization can be found on their website at https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.
Of note within Columbus County’s educational landscape is that out of 478 senior students taking the science portion of the ACT in its school districts during the 2022-23 school year, only 51 students (10.7%) were considered ready for college.
Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.
