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The Public Information Act
The Public Information Act (PIA) provides a mechanism for citizens to inspect or copy government records. It also provides that governmental bodies may withhold government records from the public in specific instances.
The PIA generally requires a governmental body to release information in response to a request for information. However, if a governmental body determines the information is excepted from disclosure under the PIA, then both the request and information at issue must be reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General Open Records Division (ORD). The ORD will issue a decision on whether the governmental body is permitted to withhold the requested information or must release the information to the requestor.
A public information request must be in writing to the governmental body you believe maintains the information. However, your written request needs to be for information already in existence. A governmental body is not required to answer questions, perform legal research, or create new information in response to your public information request.
To request public information, please use the City of Ovilla's online request form:
City of Ovilla Online Public Information Request Form
Public Information Act Resources
For more information regarding the Public Information Act see the below resources:
How to Request Public Information
Public Information Act Poster (English)
Public Information Act Poster (Spanish)
Other Methods to Request Public Information
If you chose not to use the online request form, you may request information using this printable Public Information Request Form to mail, e-mail or hand deliver to the below:
City of Ovilla
Attn: City Secretary Michelle Lilley
105 S. Cockrell Hill Road
Ovilla, Texas 75154
For more information on the Public Information Act see the TX Attorney General website.