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How to File a Records Request
Overview
Residents have the right to access public records from the City of Lake St. Croix Beach under Minnesota law.
This page explains how to request those records.
Step 1 — Identify What You’re Requesting
Be as specific as possible.
Examples:
Meeting minutes from a specific date
Emails between city officials regarding a topic
Permits or zoning documents
Contracts, invoices, or agreements
Step 2 — Submit Your Request
You can submit a request by email or in writing.
Send your request to the appropriate city contact (typically the City Clerk or Responsible Authority).
Step 3 — Sample Request (Copy and Use)
Subject: Public Records Request (Minn. Stat. §13)
Hello,
I am requesting access to public data under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minn. Stat. Chapter 13).
Specifically, I am requesting:
[Describe the records clearly]
I would like to inspect the requested data. If the volume is small, I am open to receiving copies.
Please provide these records in electronic format if available.
If any portion of this request is denied, please provide the specific legal basis for the denial.
Thank you.
Step 4 — Copies vs. Inspection (Important)
You have the right to inspect public data at no cost.
If you request copies, the city may charge for time required to gather and prepare the data, especially for large requests.
Request inspection for large requests
Request copies for small requests
Step 5 — Making Your Own Copies
When inspecting data, you may:
Take photos with your phone
Use a portable scanner
Save files to a USB drive (if provided electronically)
This helps avoid unnecessary costs.
Step 6 — What to Expect
The city must respond within a reasonable period of time.
Why This Matters
Public records allow residents to understand how decisions are made.
When They Don’t Respond
Overview
If you submit a request and receive no response, take the following steps.
Step 1 — Follow Up
Hello,
I am following up on my public records request submitted on [DATE].
Please confirm receipt and provide a timeline.
Step 2 — Clarify Status
Ask:
Has my request been received?
Is it being processed?
Step 3 — Request to Inspect
You may restate your request as inspection to reduce delays and costs.
Step 4 — Document Everything
Track:
Dates submitted
Follow-ups
Responses
Step 5 — Ask for Legal Basis
“What is the legal basis under Minn. Stat. §13 for not providing the data?”
Step 6 — Contact the State
Minnesota Department of Administration
Data Practices Office
Email: info.dpo@state.mn.us
Phone: 651-296-6733
Step 7 — Next Steps
If unresolved:
Request an advisory opinion from the Data Practices Office
Consider additional action (See the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MINN. Stat. 13) for commencing a civil action
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