Comptroller of PB County on "Sunshine" Week

PB Post Letters to the Editor
Sunday, March 13, 2011

Government in sunshine is a responsible government

Florida celebrates its commitment to "sunshine" in government this week, and for good reason. Laws to ensure the public's right to inspect government documents were enacted over 100 years ago, and cemented into our state constitution in 1992.

As citizens, we have a right to know what decisions our government officials are making and a responsibility to stay informed on issues affecting our lives and our wallets. This open access to records is not just mandated by law and the constitution; it is built into the structure of our local government.

In 1838, the framers of Florida's constitution foresaw the importance of an independent guardian of the public's records. Court records, mortgages, deeds and county meeting and finance records are processed and held by the clerk and comptroller to ensure their safety and integrity. You are entitled to easy, unfettered access to information, such as the cost of county projects and other expenses, how commissioners voted, foreclosure and criminal case records, and marriage licenses dating back to 1909. All are available online at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com or at locations throughout Palm Beach County.

During Sunshine Week, I reaffirm my commitment to safeguard, and provide easy, open access to the records held by my office. A government in the sunshine is a responsible government. I encourage you to explore your right to access public records, not just during Sunshine Week but all year.

SHARON BOCK
West Palm Beach
clerk and comptroller of Palm Beach County

*Also read the editorial in Sunday's Post by Jac Wilder VerSteeg, Scott keeps Public in the Dark.

"Open government is what distinguishes democracy from every other form of government. And anything that impedes open government -- be it ill-trained bureaucrats or outrageous open records fees -- should be swept away."
The St. Petersburg Times, Editorial Board

Many thanks to Deborah Andrea at the Lake Worth City Clerk's office for always being helpful, efficient and someone who gives excellent service regarding public information requests.