EDITOR:
I recently read the letter to the editor expressing concerns about the handling of open records requests (Landmark, Feb. 11, 2026), and I appreciate the opportunity to respond.
I fully support the purpose of open records requests. They are an essential tool in promoting transparency, accountability, and public trust in government. Citizens have a right to access public information, and that right is taken seriously.
The process of responding to open records requests is often more complex than it may first appear. Each request must be carefully reviewed to determine what records are responsive, what information may be protected by law, and how to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. This frequently involves coordinating across departments, reviewing large volumes of documents, and safeguarding confidential information where applicable.
Variations in response times or procedures do not reflect impropriety, but rather the diligence required to ensure accuracy and full compliance with the law. For example, the Missouri Attorney General’s Office–which has the authority to enforce violations of the Sunshine Law–has faced significant backlogs in answering Sunshine Law requests, with some requests taking even nearly a year to fulfill.
My office remains committed to transparency, consistency, and serving the public with integrity. We welcome constructive dialogue and are always willing to clarify how the process works.
--Jera Pruitt
Platte County Clerk
