El Cerrito: The Challenge of Accessing Public Information- Microblog
The El Cerrito Citizens for Responsible Government (ECCRG) recently sought specific details from the city regarding the number of right-to-information requests filed in 2023, along with their outcomes and reasons for any refusals.
It’s important to note that while the city did provide details about who made the requests and their topics and dates, the City Clerk failed to disclose the outcomes of these requests or the reasons behind any rejections. This omission prompted ECCRG to renew its request for this crucial information.
The city’s response has been less than satisfactory. They’ve now indicated a further delay of 30 days to provide the requested data. This approach is disappointing and does little to foster trust. The City Clerk’s office could have initially informed ECCRG of the 30-day requirement. Instead, they used a 14-day period, followed by additional time for review, effectively prolonging the process to 6 + weeks.
This incident underscores a broader issue with the city’s handling of public information requests. There’s a perceived tendency to delay or deny requests, particularly those that might cast the city in a negative light. Such practices are in stark contrast to principles of accountability and transparency and only serve to further erode community trust.
Additionally, the community discourse has been clouded by misleading statements. An outspoken resident of El Cerrito, known for their active participation in online forums and self-identification as a city supporter, has perpetuated the notion that a majority of the public information requests are made by one person. Contrary to these claims, city records reveal that this targeted person is not the top requester of information. This city supporter not only engages in baseless public criticism directed at specific individuals but also disseminates their opinions through private messages and emails, frequently criticizing those who raise concerns about city management. Furthermore, much of what this enthusiast shares is based on personal opinions rather than facts supported by evidence.
The spread of misinformation by this city enthusiast and the City Clerk’s handling of information requests is detrimental to the city’s reputation. While their intentions might be to protect the city, these actions tarnish the image of city staff and leadership who are striving to improve the city’s standing and restore trust.
It’s time for city leaders to step in and ensure that the City Clerk’s office fulfills its duty to provide public information promptly and transparently. Given the influence city leaders may have, particularly as acquaintances of the city enthusiast, their intervention could be pivotal in steering the city towards greater openness, accountability, and public trust.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 
Morning:
Who is the individual city supporter? I have submitted PRAs for text messages and have been told none exist on this topic.
On Sat, Jan 20, 2024, 09:43 El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government
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The PRA was submitted in 2024 so perhaps your request was submitted prior. Perhaps I have misunderstood your question. At any rate, we have seen your posts on social media so imagine you can guess the names of the top requester and city enthusiast.
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I am at a loss for who that city supporter is. Yes, my PRA was pretty Jan 1 and I have now been told my PRAs will be delayed and the city will spend 3 hours per week and respond to PRAs in order received, once every 30 days. Next response is scheduled for Feb 8.
On Sat, Jan 20, 2024, 10:10 El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government
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If that’s the case, the city is in violation of the law. https://www.csd.ca.gov/Pages/Public-Records-Act.aspx#:~:text=The%20PRA%20requires%20public%20agencies,14%20days%20in%20certain%20circumstances).
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PS, many of the supporter’s remarks are on next door.
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