Public Records Requests Shed Light on Communication Practices
Recent requests for public records have spotlighted the communications between key city officials, particularly focusing on text messages exchanged regarding public works issues. These developments raise significant questions about transparency and compliance with public records laws.
Requests for Text Messages
In June, Hazel Williams, an active requester of public records, sought to obtain text messages between San Francisco’s Mayor London Breed and Public Works Director Carla Short. While Public Works provided the requested messages, the mayor’s office reported that no relevant texts existed.
The following month, another public records request was made by a journalist named Fisher for text messages exchanged between Short and Deputy Mayor Andre Lurie. Public Works complied and delivered these communications, which included directives about maintaining city infrastructure.
Content of the Communications
Analysis of the disclosed messages reveals practical discussions regarding city maintenance. For instance, on February 10, Lurie texted Short regarding a sidewalk condition, urging prompt action: “From the supervisor. Let’s please work to get this cleaned up,” to which Short responded that a crew was being dispatched. In subsequent requests, Lurie directed Short to address issues involving several tents located near known city areas, highlighting ongoing concerns about cleanliness and safety in public spaces.
Concerns Over Missing Records
Despite the retrieval of messages from Public Works, Fisher’s attempts to obtain text messages from the mayor’s office were met with the assertion that no records were available. Advocacy groups for transparency and open records have raised alarms, suggesting that this could indicate a potential practice of deleting communication records by the mayor.
The Legal Perspective
Legal experts assert that text messages relating to public duties are considered public records under the California Public Records Act. Susan Seager, an adjunct professor at UC Irvine School of Law, emphasized, “I will say with 100% certainty, yes, that’s a public record, and should be turned over upon request and should be preserved as an official public record.” This confirms the expectation that public officials maintain transparency in their official communications.
Conclusion
The ongoing discussions surrounding public record requests and the responses—or lack thereof— from city officials underscore the need for improved transparency in governmental communication. As these instances unfold, they could lead to broader conversations about accountability and the practices of public officials.
