We’re happy to share more information with you.
WEDC is not simply following Wis. Stat. §19.31-39 ; we’re happy to provide more details. We’re here to serve Wisconsin and its residents, and you absolutely deserve to know how your tax dollars are being spent.
Wisconsin’s Public Records Law
Wisconsin has a long, proud tradition of open government. This tradition is embodied in our state’s public records law, Wis. Stat. §19.31-39 , which states that “it is declared to be the public policy of this state 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.” The purpose of the law is to provide broad, practical access to the state government. To that end, the public has a right to inspect or receive a copy of certain records WEDC maintains.
Description of WEDC
WEDC is a public body corporate and politic created by state law. WEDC exists under the authority of Wis. Stat. §238. WEDC’s custodian of records is Chief Legal Officer Jennifer Campbell.
Procedure for requesting records from WEDC
Requests must be reasonably specific as to the subject matter and time period.
Fees
WEDC may charge the actual, necessary, and direct cost of reproducing a record. When the request calls for a copy of a record and the record can be photocopied, WEDC may charge its standard fees of:
When requested and whenever practicable, WEDC will provide electronic copies of records that already exist in electronic format without charging reproduction fees on a per-page basis. However, if the record requested is not in a readily comprehensible form, WEDC may charge the actual cost of creating a readily comprehensible copy. WEDC will not charge for the cost of reviewing records for possible redaction or removal of confidential information. WEDC may charge the actual, necessary, and direct costs of locating the records if that cost exceeds $50. Any staff time for locating records will be billed at the hourly rate of salary for the lowest-paid employee capable of performing the task. The hourly rate charged for locating records may also include the cost of benefits but will not exceed $30 per hour. If the records are mailed or shipped to the requester, WEDC may charge the actual, necessary, and direct mailing or shipping cost.
The above fees apply except where a different fee is authorized by law. WEDC may request prepayment if the total costs are greater than $5. Make checks payable to Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Fees totaling less than $5 may be waived at WEDC’s discretion.
Timing
WEDC provides requested records “as soon as practicable and without delay” (Wis. Stat. §19.35(4)). The time it takes WEDC to respond to the request will depend on factors including the nature and extent of the request and the availability of staff and other resources necessary to process the request. If WEDC denies a written request, you have a right to receive the denial in writing.
