FOIA Request to Columbus State University regarding public university FY 2024 employee salaries on December 5, 2025.
On December 5, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Columbus State University by Peach Tree Times. The request seeks detailed records concerning employee compensation for all individuals employed by the university during Fiscal Year 2024. This inquiry is made under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50.18.70 et seq., with a preference for receiving the information in electronic format.
The request specifically asks for records that include various data fields such as fiscal year, employee name, gender, age or year of birth (if not exempt), date of birth (if not exempt or limited to month/year), employer name, title or position, department, hire date, compensation amount (including base pay and any additional pay), compensation type (e.g., salary, hourly, stipend, bonus), and employment type (full-time or part-time). It is noted that if any portion of a record is deemed exempt from disclosure, the non-exempt portions should be provided in redacted form rather than being withheld entirely.
The Peach Tree Times emphasizes its role in gathering and reporting news to the public as part of its mission to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency. The organization has requested a fee waiver based on its status as a media entity. Additionally, it is mentioned that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to investigating governmental agencies and promoting transparency through FOIA and Sunshine Laws.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
