FOIA Request to City of Lincolnton regarding new or amended contracts on February 1, 2026.
The Gastonia Times has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the City of Lincolnton seeking access to records pertaining to new contracts and amendments to existing contracts. The request was made under the North Carolina Public Records Law, G.S. §132-1, and aims to obtain information for the preceding calendar month.
The request specifically asks for records that include the title of the contract or amendment, names of contracting parties, effective and approval dates, contract amounts or amended values, and descriptions of goods or services covered. The Gastonia Times emphasizes that this request is limited to records that currently exist and does not necessitate the creation of new documents.
In addition, the Gastonia Times has requested a fee waiver citing their role as a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. They assert that access to these public records is crucial for fulfilling their professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency.
This request is part of a broader effort by The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization assisting media companies in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this coalition can be found on their website here.
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.
