FAQ

Every citizen has been granted the Constitutional right to inspect or copy any public record with some exemptions in Florida, and the Sunshine Law provides a right of access to government proceedings at both the state and local levels.

Citizen Guide to Public Records and the Sunshine Law in Florida

You have the right to inspect and copy public records at any reasonable time, under reasonable conditions, and under the supervision by the custodian of the public records.
You have the right to request public records without having to show identification, without saying why you want the records, and without making your request in writing.
You have the right to request an estimate for the time and costs involved in producing your public records request.
You have the right to ask for a written statement of the statutory basis for denying access to public records.
You have the right to be present and unobtrusively record public meetings.

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What is the definition of a "public record?"

The term "public records" is defined by Section 119.011(12), F.S. as:

All documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software or other material.
Regardless of physical form, characteristics, or means of transmission.
Made or received in accordance with law or in connection with the official business of an agency.

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Can someone be charged a fee for a public records request?

The Public Records Act authorizes the imposition of fees for public records. However, those fees are not intended as ways for the agency to make money.

If the agency has to use extensive technology or staff time in responding to a public records request, the agency can impose a service charge, as long as that charge is reasonable and reflects its actual costs.

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Guide to City of Clewiston Public Records Request Fees

Charge may vary.

Research fees (2-hour minimum) .....20.00 per hour

Copy and faxing fees

Copies up to 8.5" x 14": Black & White, Single-Sided .....0.15 per copy
Copies up to 8.5" x 14": Black & White, Double-Sided .....0.20 per copy
Copies up to 8.5" x 14": Color, Single-Sided .....0.25 per copy
Copies up to 8.5" x 14": Color, Double-Sided .....0.30 per copy
Copies 11" X 17": Black & White, Single-Sided .....0.25 per copy
Copies 11" X 17": Black & White, Double-Sided .....0.35 per copy
Copies 11" X 17": Color, Single-Sided .....0.55 per copy
Copies 11" X 17": Color, Double-Sided .....0.75 per copy
Large Format Copies .....Actual Cost
Certification of Documents (fee is in addition to duplication fee)* .....$1.00/document
Copies Provided on CD/DVD .....2.00/each
Copies Provided on Mini CD/DVD (if available) .....4.00/each
Copies Provided on VHS Tape (if available) .....4.00/each
Copies Provided on Cassette Tape (if available) .....5.00/each
Copies Provided on Jump Drive (if available)
Postage and Packaging if Mailed Out (USPS/UPS/FED-EX .....Current Rate

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What if I Have a Question About the Contents of a Public Document?

While you are free to ask any questions that you may have, please keep in mind that public bodies are not required to explain or answer questions about their public records, nor are they required to create public records where none exist.

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When Will I Be Able to Inspect or Receive Copies of the Documents?

Public records requests are processed in the order in which they are received. If the requestor submits more than one public records request, we will process and complete the first request before proceeding with any additional request(s).

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How long must an agency keep a public record?

The minimum retention period of a public record is determined by the record’s nature, content and purpose. Consult Florida's General Records Schedules for more information.

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The City of Clewiston does not maintain Birth/ Death/ Marriage records.

We recommend that you contact Hendry County: Click here!

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Job Opportunities with the City of Clewiston

The City of Clewiston is currently accepting applications for announced positions only. To explore available job postings and learn more about opportunities with us, please visit the city’s official website: https://www.clewiston-fl.gov/department/division.php?structureid=20.

We look forward to your application!

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Find the City's agendas and minutes: Click Here!

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For more information on Audits, please call Finance Director Shari Howell at 863-983-1484.

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Questions regarding a bill or invoice should be directed to Shari Howell at 863-983-1484.

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Access City's Budget: Click Here!

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Access City's Annual Financial Reports: Click Here!

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File Police Report: Click Here!