Sangamon Sun

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FOIA Request to City of Atlanta Regarding Newly Registered Businesses on May 7, 2025.

As part of our commitment to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we at Sangamon Sun have submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the City of Atlanta. Our request seeks access to records detailing businesses registered with the city in the past week. Specifically, we are requesting information that includes the business name, business number, business type, business address, issued date, status, and registered agent name.

This request is made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, and we have asked for these records preferably in electronic format. As members of the media involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, access to such public records is crucial for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These responsibilities include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.

Additionally, as members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy—a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies—we believe this request aligns with our mission to leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. This effort aims to shed light on government actions and help inform the American electorate.

We have also requested a fee waiver for this information due to our role as media professionals disseminating important information to the public. We look forward to receiving these records promptly and appreciate any assistance from the City of Atlanta in fulfilling this request.