Public Information - Open Records Requests

Texas Law gives the public the right to access records of governmental agencies, including those of the City of Bay City. State Law also provides that certain records are the exception to the law and are not available to the public. The Public Information Act requires governmental bodies to  provide access to existing documents or information that already exists in recorded form. However, it does not require the City to answer questions, create new documents, or compile information is response to a request. If seeking answers to questions or a "Public Communications Request", please visit our Communications Department. The City of Bay City is happy to provide you with the records you are requesting and will do so promptly within our regular work schedule. An overview can be found on the Attorney General website here.

1. All requests for public information submitted by any individual, firm, or entity during any twelve (12) month period during the fiscal year shall be limited as to the time required to respond, to fifteen (15) hours per month and thirty-six (36) hours total for any given fiscal year.
2. All provisions of Sec. 552.275 of the Texas Government Code are adopted and incorporated herein.

Submit a Request

To obtain copies of Public Records, an Open Records Request must be in writing. Open Records Request may be submitted online (preferred) through NextRequest at https://cityofbaycitytx.nextrequest.com/ . A form is also available at the City Secretary’s Office. Open Records Request submitted by email must be addressed to the City Secretary email citysecretary@cityofbaycity.org and must include contact information (name, address and phone). Request for Open Records can be mailed, as well. If mailing, send to City Secretary, 1901 5th Street, Bay City, TX 77414.