FOIA Request to Clay County regarding new or amended contracts on January 16, 2026.
On January 16, 2026, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Clay County, North Carolina. The request was made by Nantahala News, a media organization focused on local governmental affairs. The request seeks access to records under the North Carolina Public Records Law, G.S. §132-1.
The specific information requested includes copies of all newly executed contracts or amendments entered into by the county between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. The areas of interest specified in the request are public works, information technology or digital services, and consulting or professional services. The requester has asked for these documents in electronic format where possible and has emphasized that the request applies only to existing records.
Nantahala News is seeking this information as part of its commitment to transparency and accountability in public institutions. As a member of the media, they have also requested a fee waiver based on their role in gathering and reporting news to the public.
The requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies using Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More details about this organization can be found on their website here.
Of note within Clay County’s educational context is that out of 83 senior students taking the science portion of the ACT in local school districts during the 2022-23 school year, only 20 students (24.1%) were considered ready for college.
Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.
