Information Access and Privacy
Accessing Municipal Information
The Township of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield is committed to providing individuals with the right of access to information in our custody and control including records containing their own personal information, where applicable.
Requesters can make a general inquiry by contacting the appropriate department and simply asking for the desired information.
Information often requested and available through the Towsnhip Website includes:
- Council Agenda
- Council Minutes
- Official Plan & Zoning By-law
- By-laws & Policies
- Forms, Applications & Permits
- Other Links
- Staff Contacts
- Use this websites "Search" function (at top of page)
In some cases, records may contain protected information under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and as such a formal FOI may be required.
The Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
The Clerk's Office is responsible for the daily administration of the Act, including receiving and processing access requests on behalf of the Township, providing advice to administration, serving members of the public and helping to ensure that the privacy requirements of the Act are met.
What is the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act?
The Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act applies to all municipalities in Ontario as well as boards, agencies and commissions including school boards and police services.
The Act provides for the right to access recorded information held by institutions and the right to acccess one's own personal information. The Act also deals with privacy and requires municipalities to protect personal information.
In essence, MFIPPA aims to strike a balance between access to information and protection of one's personal privacy.
For more detailed information about the Act, additional brochures and other useful information www.ipc.on.ca
Information and Privacy Commissioner/Ontario
80 Bloor Street West, Suite 1700
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2V1
T: 1-800-387-0073
F: 1(416) 325-9195
TTY: 1(416) 325-7539
How do I make a formal request for Information under the Act?
Complete a Freedom of Information Request Form available from the Clerk's Department at the Municipal Office on 1310 Centre Line or by contacting the Clerk at 705-292-9507 or email Angela Chittick
Will I receive the Information I asked for?
Some requests for information may not be granted becasue of exemptions to open access. Mandatory exemptions prohibit the municipality, by law, from giving the information to a requestor, while discretionary exemptions leave the decision on whether or not disclosure of the information would be appropriate to the municipality.
Contact Us
For more information on how to access records or personal information under the Act,
Contact:
Angela Chittick, Clerk
Township of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield
Tel; 705-292-9507 ext. 221
