Request to Inspect Public Records
Kentucky Open Records Act/Open Records Requests
What is the Kentucky Open Records Act?
The Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870 to KRS 61.884) provides access to public records that, by law, are not exempt from disclosure. For more information on the Kentucky Open Records Act, visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General Web site at http://ag.ky.gov/opengov.htm.
What are public records?
Public records are those materials prepared, owned, used, possessed, maintained or retained by state and local government agencies that must be open for public inspection unless the records are excluded by any of the exemptions in the Kentucky Open Records Act. Public agencies are not required to compile information or to answer questions but are only required to provide specific records responsive to a request. For more information on the exemptions, please visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General Website at http://ag.ky.gov/opengov.htm.
Is there a cost for records?
Yes. The City of Morehead, Kentucky charges per released page and per disc or jump drive (i.e. photographs, audio recordings, or video footage). The City Attorney sends a letter stating how much a requester owes for records. It is the policy of the City of Morehead to release records upon receipt of payment.
Records Request Fee List (pdf.)
What is the timeframe for a response to my request?
Records shall be made available for review and/or copies within the five-day required response period unless a different timeframe is specified in the response due to the increased time it may take to recover documents from Archives, computer record search, the involvement of multiple departments, volume of responsive records, records are in current use, or other designated reason for a response time of greater than five days. This policy provides guidance in applying standard charges and formats for Open Record copies consistent with Kentucky Open Records law and subsequent Attorney Generals Opinions.
How do I request a public record?
Requests may be sent by mail, submitted in person, or electronically. The request must be in writing and include the following information:
1. Name, telephone number, and signature of the individual requesting to inspect the records.
2. Mailing address, if requesting the records be mailed, or email address if requesting electronically.
3. The specific record(s) the requestor wishes to inspect or to receive a copy of.
4. Whether the records are requested for commercial or noncommercial use. If requested for commercial use, a certified statement stating the commercial purpose for which the records will be used.
Complete the attached form and submit it by mail, electronically, in person, or by hand-delivering your request to the following addresses:
City of Morehead, Kentucky
ATTN: Helen Smith, City Clerk
314 Bridge Street
Morehead, KY 40351
Morehead Police Department- Only Police and Telecommunications Records
ATTN: Tiffany Lowe
309 West Main Street
Morehead, KY 40351
Email your request to the following:
HSmith@morehead-ky.gov – City Clerk
tlowe@cityofmorehead.net – Morehead Police Department Administrator
mhughesrichmond@morehead-ky.gov – City Attorney
Send to the attention of the City Clerk or City Attorney.
Questions should be directed to Helen Smith at 606-784-8505.
Questions concerning Police and Telecommunication records should be directed to Tiffany Lowe 606-874-7511.
Online Form: Inspection of Public Records Request Form