Chicago mayor to post all public records requests on website

Chicago mayor Richard Daley announced today that the city would begin posting logs of all freedom of information requests on its website, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. 

The logs will contain the requester’s name, requester’s organization, documents requested, request date and the date the document is scheduled to be released.

Daley dismissed claims that his actions were motivated by revenge against investigative reporters who have uncovered numerous political scandals during his administration and said the move is part of a push toward greater transparency.   Critics argue that by posting the logs Daley is essentially providing a tip service for competing reporters.

In addition to the request logs, the city website will contain a variety of new information for citizens, including city employees’ financial interest statements, payments made by the city, city contractors’ financial disclosures and other information such as graffiti removal and street light replacement schedules.