Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Public Act No. 442 of 1976, establishes procedures to ensure every citizen's right to review or receive copies of documents possessed by government entities. The law requires that a request for a document be submitted in writing to BCHC’s FOIA Coordinator, the Executive Director. Although BCHC strives to assist you as much as possible, FOIA does not require that BCHC create records that do not already exist or answer general questions. Click here to view the Battle Creek Housing Commission FOIA Policies and Procedures.

You are encouraged, but are not required, to use the attached form to make your request. Click here for the FOIA Request for Public Records. If you do not use the form, your written request should provide the information sought on the form:

• Indication that it is a FOIA request
• Name, address, telephone number and email (if applicable) of requester (if no mailing address, a statement that requester will return to receive response).
• Statement that requester will pay the costs allowable under the FOIA or documentation showing that the requester is receiving public assistance or other facts showing inability to pay due to indigence.

After receiving a request for a public record, a public body has five business days to respond. The public agency may extend the time by 10 business days by notifying the requester in writing.

BCHC is entitled to recover reasonable costs incurred in responding to a request. Fees may be charged for the necessary copying of a public record for inspection or providing a copy of a public record to a requester. Fees may also be charged for search, examination and review, and the deletion and separation of exempt from non-exempt information. Click here for the FOIA Request Detailed Cost Itemization. You will be advised of that cost in writing as soon as your request is processed and ready to be released. Payment must be received before the document is released. Payment must be made by check or money order only. Appeals of request denials or fees charged may be made to the Commission Board.

Mail or deliver your written request to: