Open means access
It has been interesting covering the meetings of various public entities.
One city gives me everything that is in the packets for the councilmen. Another city just gives me an agenda. With a third entity I have to request an agenda and then return after the meeting and request information or copies of materials.
The county provides an agenda and makes copies upon request.
I'm sure it's not intentional but it makes one think public entities are hiding something when they don't readily provide information.
Everything that is discussed in an open meeting is fair game for anyone — not just the press — to see. It is part of the open meetings act that keeps public entities honest.
One frustration for me as a reporter who wants to report factual and accurate information, is when there is an error. More times than not, the person reporting the error to me is not willing to share information from the meeting in the first place.
I have a responsibility to the public — to report news and information that may affect them. Public officials have a responsibility as well — be open and honest with those who pay their salaries.
— SUSAN BERG
