Open Public Records Act
The New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA) established two items important to people seeking local, county or state government information. First, it provided a definition of what is considered a public government record. Second, it established a process with timeframes for making formal requests for government records. The following information below is provided for people seeking to make an OPRA request for Township of Chatham governmental records. OPRA designates the Township Clerk as the official custodian of local government records. However it is possible for a municipality to appoint sub-custodians who can also accept OPRA requests. Check with the Township Clerk to find out where your request should be submitted.
What is a Public Record?
A public record is considered printed documents such as:
- Agendas, minutes, budget worksheets and presentations, contracts, bills, vouchers
- Handwritten Documents
- Books, Maps and Photographs
- Tape and Video Recordings
- Computer Records and E-Mail
- Electronically Stored Information
Exceptions include:
- Where a record does not exist and one must be created to respond to a request.
Information that would jeopardize security. - If the record is electronic, the municipality is not obligated to provide the software to view the record.
- Personal Information such as social security number, driver license number, unlisted phone number.
- Public Defender files
How do I request a public record?
What are the costs?
Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, the fee assessed for photocopying a printed government record: 8 1/2 X 11 (or 14) inches shall be:
- $0.05 per page for letter size paper & smaller
- $0.07 per page for legal size paper & larger
- $1.79 for Audio CDs
- Fees for reproducing other government records are set forth by Township Code.
Contact Information
58 Meyersville Road
Chatham, New Jersey 07928