The South Carolina Code of Laws 1976, As Amended, Section 30-4-15 states:
“The General Assembly finds that it is vital in a democratic society that public business be performed in an open and public manner so that citizens shall be advised of the performance of public officials and of the decisions that are reached in public activity and in the formulation of public policy.”
The Florence County Emergency Management Department (FCEMD) and Emergency Communications Center (ECC) are committed to transparency and following the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). We aim to provide timely access to public records and help keep our community informed about the work we do to serve Florence County.
Requesting Records
A FOIA request may be made for any existing agency record. You may specify the format in which you’d like to receive the records (for example, printed or electronic). Please note that the FOIA does not require public bodies to create new records, conduct research, analyze data, or answer general questions in response to a request.
Response Timeframes
For records less than 24 months old, FCEMD/ECC will issue a written determination within 10 business days of receiving the request, excluding weekends and legal holidays. If the requested records are more than 24 months old, we will respond within 20 business days.
Record Delivery
Once a request is approved, records that are less than 24 months old will be provided within 30 calendar days of the final determination. For records more than 24 months old, records will be provided within 35 calendar days of the final determination.
Fees and Payment
Fees may be charged based on the actual cost of searching for, retrieving, and preparing the records. While a deposit is not required, full payment must be made at or before the time the records are provided.
Use of Personal Information
According to South Carolina Code of Laws Section 30-2-50, it is illegal for any person or private entity to knowingly obtain personal information from a local government or political subdivision for commercial purposes. Violations are classified as misdemeanors and may result in a $500 fine and/or up to one year in jail upon conviction.
FOIA application
The Public Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) allows citizens to see what is happening within the County 24/7/365.
Public Website CAD
Public education and awareness campaigns have significantly contributed to the ongoing success of a prepared public.
In order for citizens of all ages to understand their role in ensuring effective and efficient emergency response for themselves and their fellow citizens, we have developed many presentations and educational literature.
Throughout the year we schedule opportunities such as presenting at civic groups, festivals, community events, Boy and Girl Scouts, senior and homeowner association meetings and many more.
If you have an event you would like for us to participate in, please reach out. We would love to participate and continue to prepare our public! Submit a request here!
