In recognition of the fact that a representative government is dependent upon an informed electorate, it is declared to be the public policy of the village that all persons are entitled to the greatest possible information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those officers and employees who represent them. Further, providing persons with such information is declared to be an essential function of a representative government and an integral part of the routine duties of officers and employees whose responsibility it is to provide such information. To that end, the provisions of this chapter shall be construed in every instance with a presumption of complete public access, consistent with the conduct of government business. The denial of public access generally is contrary to the public interest, and only in an exceptional case may access be denied. Any matter pertaining to public access to records which is not included in this chapter is governed by Wis. Stats. §§ 19.31 through 19.39 and other applicable laws.
(Ord. 38-07, passed - -07)