FOIA Request to Washington County regarding vendor payment registers on January 15, 2026.
On January 15, 2026, Old North News submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Washington County in North Carolina. The request seeks access to the county’s vendor payment registers for the period from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. The records requested include details such as the names of vendors paid by the county, dates and amounts of payments made, and descriptions of goods or services purchased.
The request was made under the North Carolina Public Records Law, G.S. §132-1., with a preference for receiving the information in electronic format. As a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, Old North News emphasizes that access to public records is crucial for holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency.
Old North News also notes its affiliation with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this coalition can be found on their website.
In Washington County school districts during the 2022-23 school year, only six out of sixty-eight junior students taking the reading portion of the ACT were considered ready for college—a statistic that underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
