Those seeking public records should be charged only the actual cost of making copies, unless the cost is otherwise set by statute. Employee time should not be calculated into the charge for copying a public record. However, in the event that circumstances make it reasonable for this office to hire an outside contractor to make copies of requested records, the requester will be charged the actual cost paid to the outside contractor for the copying service. (R.C. 149.43(F)(2)(a)). These circumstances may include but not limited to a lack of in-house photocopying resources or labor. This office has no duty to provide copies of public records free of charge to someone who indicates an inability or unwillingness to pay for them.
(A) The charge for the paper copies is $0.10 per page.
(B) This office may require a requester to pay in advance the cost involved in providing the copy of the public record, as requested.
(C) Upon request, this office will provide copies of public records to a requester by United States mail or by any other delivery means or transmission that this office deems reasonable. This office may require such a requester to pay in advance the cost of postage or costs incurred for other supplies used in the mailing, delivery, or transmission.
(D) There may be instances when this office may be able to provide copies made-in-house without disrupting its normal functions, but only over an extended period of time. In that instance, this office may offer the requester the options of:
(1) Having the documents produced through a faster method by employing temporary personnel and equipment,
(2) Using an external private contractor, or
(3) Having the documents produced in-house by this public office's normal staff and equipment in a less efficient and more time-consuming manner.
(Ord. 2007-10-40, passed 10-9-07)
Statutory reference:
Availability of public records for inspection and copying, see R.C. § 149.43