Public Records

Transparency and open government are the cornerstones of a strong democracy. Public access to information and the decision-making process gives citizens the information and insight needed to foster civic engagement and ensure accountability.  City of Claremont is subject to California Public Records Act and the Raph M. Brown Act that ensures the people's business is conducted publicly and transparently.

The Ralph M. Brown Act is a California law that guarantees the public's right to attend and participate in meetings of local legislative bodies.

Guide to the Brown Act(PDF, 3MB)

The California Public Records Act (PRA) provides for a right of access to public records and other information. The PRA makes all non-exempt City records – including the remainder of records after exempt portions are redacted – in any form or medium – subject to public inspection during the City's normal office hours or other reasonable timeframe. Hard copies of those records are available after payment of duplication costs. The City Clerk's office provides digital copies of records upon request at no cost.

The PRA does not provide for creation/preparation of a record or document that does not exist at the time of the request. Additionally, certain categories of personal information and records are exempt from disclosure under the PRA. Other laws also protect individual privacy interests and other propriety information from disclosure.

The People's Business - A Guide to the Public Records Act(PDF, 2MB)