FOIA Request to Orange County regarding vendor payment registers on January 15, 2026.
A request for public records was submitted to Orange County, North Carolina, under the North Carolina Public Records Law, G.S. §132-1. The request was made by a representative of the Chapel Hill Review, a media organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request seeks access to copies of existing vendor payment registers maintained by the county for the period from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Specifically, the records requested include the names of vendors paid by the county, dates and amounts of payments made, and descriptions of goods or services purchased during this timeframe.
The Chapel Hill Review emphasizes its role in gathering and reporting news to the public as part of its professional responsibilities. Access to these public records is deemed essential for holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. The requester has also highlighted their eligibility for a fee waiver due to their status as a media professional.
Additionally, it is noted that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. This organization utilizes Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to promote transparency in government actions.
Of note within Orange County’s educational landscape: Of 1,407 senior students taking the science portion of the ACT in Orange County school districts, 692 (49.2%) were considered ready for college in the 2022-23 school year.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.