Running a municipality in Ohio is a tough undertaking. You must do what is best for your city and your citizens. Whether you are working as the mayor or part of a city council, the responsibility is huge. It is important that you have the ability to make hard decisions that will benefit the community but it is equally important that you make such decisions in the most transparent way possible. This is where the state’s Sunshine Laws come into play.
The Ohio Attorney General explains the Sunshine Laws are about making local government accessible to its citizens. These laws require a municipality to provide public records and access to its citizens. They help municipalities to govern in a more open way. These laws also encourage accountability, letting citizens get information so they can ask questions and ensure their government is operating in the way it should.
The Sunshine Laws can be complex and difficult to understand, specifically when it comes to keeping public records. There is a lot of assistance for municipalities when it comes to interpreting the laws and putting them into action. The Attorney General offers several resources to assist you. You also should always have legal representation to help you.
Understanding the Sunshine Laws will help to prevent issues that could occur if you are not openly governing as you should. It will also allow you to provide a better experience to the citizens in your community and help them to work with you to govern in the best way possible. This information is for education only. It is not legal advice.
