Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Warren Township complies with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq. All persons, except those incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities, have the right to request public records maintained by the township. The FOIA Coordinator will respond to requests in accordance with the statutory timelines and fee guidelines established by the Act.
FOIA Coordinator
Linda S. Anthony
Township Clerk / FOIA Coordinator
How to file a FOIA request
Step 1: Submit a Written Request
Submit a FOIA request in writing to the FOIA Coordinator. Requests may be submitted by mail, email, fax, or in person. Include a clear description of the records sought to help staff locate them efficiently. You may use the township's FOIA Request Form or submit your own written request.
Step 2: Request Received and Reviewed
The FOIA Coordinator will review your request and determine whether the records exist, are subject to any exemptions, and estimate any fees for search, review, and duplication. The township will respond within 5 business days of receiving your request.
Step 3: Fee Deposit (If Applicable)
If the estimated fee exceeds $50.00, you may be asked to pay a deposit of up to 50% of the total estimated fee before processing begins. A detailed itemization of the fee components will be provided.
Step 4: Records Provided or Denial Issued
Once fees are paid (if applicable), records will be provided in the format requested if available. If any records are exempt from disclosure, the township will issue a written denial citing the specific FOIA exemption(s) that apply.
Step 5: Appeal if Denied
If your request is denied in whole or in part, you may appeal to the Township Supervisor within 180 days. The Supervisor will respond within 10 business days. You may also seek judicial review in circuit court.
Response timeline
Initial Response
5 business days from receipt of request
Extension
Up to 10 additional business days with written notice
Appeal Deadline
180 days from denial
Fee schedule
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Paper copies (letter/legal) | $0.10 per page |
| Paper copies (oversized) | Actual cost |
| Digital copies (CD/USB) | Actual cost of media |
| Email delivery | No additional charge |
| Labor for search | Hourly wage of lowest-paid capable employee |
| Labor for review/separation | Hourly wage of lowest-paid capable employee |
| Mailing costs | Actual cost |
| Fee waiver (indigent) | First $20 waived with affidavit |
| Fee reduction (nonprofit) | Reduced per statutory guidelines |
Appeals process
If your FOIA request is denied in whole or in part, you have the right to appeal. Written appeals must be submitted to the Township Supervisor within 180 calendar days of the denial. The Supervisor will issue a decision within 10 business days. If the appeal is denied, you may file a civil action in the Circuit Court for the county in which the township is located.
Contact: Township Supervisor, Warren Township, 989-465-9811, [email protected]