SW Kansas News

FOIA Request to Ford County regarding climate litigation contracts and communications on August 28, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Ford County by SW Kansas News, seeking records related to climate litigation. The request specifically asks for any contracts, retainer agreements, or engagement letters between Ford County and law firms or attorneys concerning actual or potential litigation involving climate issues. This includes matters related to climate change, global warming, or other environmental or energy-related litigation.

Additionally, the request seeks any communications such as emails, memos, or letters between Ford County officials and legal representatives about the county's involvement or potential involvement in such litigations. The requester has asked for these documents preferably in electronic format under the Kansas Open Records Act § 45-215 et seq.

In the event that any part of this request is denied, a written explanation citing applicable exemptions is requested. If documents can be partially disclosed with redactions, the requester has asked for this option to be considered.

The requester from SW Kansas News emphasized their role in gathering and reporting news to the public as a media professional. They also noted their affiliation with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating governmental agencies through FOIA and Sunshine Laws. More information about this organization can be found on their website: https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.

Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.