Open Records Request
HOUSE BILL 872
The Texas Legislature passed HB 872 which includes legislation that requires government-operated utilities to keep utility billing and customer account information confidential. Previously, customers had to specifically request to keep their account information private; however, with the approval of HB 872 all residential customer account information is automatically kept confidential. If a customer would like to disclose their information to a third party, please complete a Disclosure Form and return it to Info@tcmud.org
The District has an online records portal where you may view information that is readily available.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION
What is a “Request for Public Information” also known as “Open Records Request”?
Requests for Public Information, also known as Open Records Requests, are simply requests for information that has been “collected, assembled or maintained” by or for a governmental body. (Government Code, Chapter 552)
State and federal laws allow individuals as well as private companies and government organizations to request for review or copy government documents of a public nature. The District is committed to providing as much public content as possible while safeguarding protected confidential information. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please contact the Records Management Officer at (682) 831-4600.
How do I obtain public information?
Send your request for information to us in writing, in person or by fax:
Trophy Club Municipal Utility District No. 1
Attn: District Secretary/RMO
100 Municipal Dr.
Trophy Club, Texas 76262
Fax: (817) 491-9312 - Attn: District Secretary
How do I phrase my request? Is there a special form I should use?
Your request may be typed or handwritten and does not need to cite a specific law or statute. It must have enough information to identify the information requested, the requestor’s name and a means to communicate with the requestor (i.e. address, telephone number, etc.) An open records request must be for information that exists at the time of the request.
Will I get all the information I want?
The District believes in open government and strives to fulfill all open records requests. However, there may be occasions in which information may fall under one of the exceptions allowed by law. Exceptions frequently include confidential information. Some exceptions are mandatory (required non-disclosure) while others are discretionary (depends on circumstances surrounding the document); some exceptions are permanent, while others are temporary. The District will release information that does not fall under the exceptions and will send the excepted information to the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for an opinion on disclosure.
Once the OAG has rendered an opinion, the District will comply. Documents are usually furnished to the requestor within 10 business days. Requests that are voluminous, archived, or that require manipulation may take more time. In such cases, the requestor is notified that more time is needed and a firm time and date for release is set.
Additional Information
Office of the Attorney General
Texas Public Information Handbook
Open Government Online Training Course