Starting today, members of the media and public can submit a TPIA request online using GovQA instead of filing in person or by email. The software will track public records requests across multiple City departments, standardize records processing, and fulfill requests in accordance with Texas Law.
The system will help the city plan for the direct costs associated with records processing and ensure the public receives complete and accurate records.
“By implementing the information management platform, my administration is setting another example for efficient and transparent government,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “GovQA will centralize and secure public records requests and reduce the amount of time our employees devote to processing paperwork.”
The public can access the portal at www.houstontx.gov/publicinformation.
GovQA, will allow requesters to submit a public records request, track its progress, and receive updates by email. Requesters will also have access to all correspondence or notes about specific requests and be able to download electronic records deliverables.
The user-friendly web portal will offer more payment options, including electronic checks, credit, and debit cards.
“The City of Houston handles over two thousand public requests annually, and public information officers work diligently to clarify each request and identify and eliminate redundancies,” said Mary Benton, City of Houston Communications Director. “GovQA makes the TPIA process more efficient, which benefits the public that we serve.”
(This post was taken from a release sent to me by the city of Houston)
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