The Freedom of Information Act was enacted to allow citizens of Illinois to have access to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts and policies of those who represent them as public officials and employees. The City of St. Charles understands the importance of providing accurate information to the public so they can be well informed regarding City operations.  A well-informed community will help the City to better serve their residents.

The City operates under the mayor-council form of government. It is divided into five wards, each ward being represented by two elected representatives (alderpersons). The Mayor is elected “at large.” Together, the Mayor and City Council serve as the policy-making body of the City. They perform such functions as passing resolutions and ordinances, approving the expenditure of money, levying taxes, approving subdivisions, zoning, and other land use regulations; and generally deciding on important issues that affect the City of St. Charles.

The City Administrator, who is appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council, is responsible for all aspects of administration, financial planning, directing, and supervising City operations. Department directors, who are appointed by the Mayor with recommendation of the City Administrator and the consent of the City Council, guide the activities of their respective operating departments. The department directors are charged with the responsibility of implementing City Council policy, maintaining operations, conducting research, and providing information on important issues to the City Council.

How to Submit a FOIA Request

FOIA requests are required to be in writing. Requests can be submitted to the City by personal delivery, mail, fax or email.

For your convenience we have two forms available, one for general requests and one for Police Department requests. Please mail, fax or e-mail to:

General Requests
City of St. Charles
FOIA Officer
2 E. Main St
St. Charles, Illinois 60174
Fax: 630-377-4430
fir@stcharlesil.gov
Adobe PDFFreedom of Information Request Form
Police Department Requests
City of St. Charles Police Department
Police Department FOIA Officer
2 State Ave.
St. Charles, IL 60174
Fax: 630-377-1078
pdfir@stcharlesil.gov
Adobe PDFPolice Records - Freedom of Information Request Form

Readily Available Documents

(A request in writing is not necessary)

Many public records are readily available at no charge on the City’s website.

Documents available immediately upon request from City Reception include:

  • The most recent two months of:
    • Public Meeting Agendas by meeting type and date
    • Approved Public Meeting Minutes by meeting type and date
  • Municipal City Code
  • Sex Offender Registration

Ordinances and resolutions will be available within 24 hours upon request from City Reception.

Copy Fees

  • There is no charge for the first 50 pages of letter or legal size black and white copies.
  • Over 50 pages:
    Letter, legal or 11"x17" (black and white or color) $ .15 per page
  • 24" x 36" large format drawings $4.00 per sheet (Regardless of number of pages)