Public Information/Open Records Request

Open Records Requests (Public Information Request)

Your Right to Know

Under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 552), you have the right to access government records. Public information is presumed available unless it is confidential by law. The City of Manvel is committed to transparency and will promptly provide requested records unless they fall under a legal exception.

Who Handles Open Records?

The City Secretary’s Office is the official custodian of city records (excluding Police and Municipal Court records). Requests for law enforcement or court records must be directed to the appropriate departments.

How to Submit a Request

To request public records, complete the City’s Public Information Request Form and return it by:

• Email

• In-person at City Hall: 20025 Hwy 6, Manvel, TX 77578

• Mail

Click the button below to fill out the request form:

Important Things to Know

What Is Considered a Valid Request?

• Must be in writing – verbal requests do not trigger a legal obligation.
• Must request existing documents – we are not required to answer questions, perform legal research, or provide future documents.

We recommend keeping a copy of your request and proof of receipt.

Fees & Notifications

• Charges may apply. If estimated costs exceed $40, you’ll receive an itemized statement before we proceed.

• The City follows state-mandated fee schedules.

What Happens After You Submit a Request?

• The City must acknowledge your written request within 10 business days.

• We aim to provide information promptly, though time may vary depending on the size and scope of your request.

• We cannot ask why you are requesting the records, but we may reach out to clarify or help narrow a large request.

What If Some Records Are Withheld?

If the City believes some or all of the information you requested is confidential or may fall under an exception to disclosure, we are required by law to request a ruling from the Texas Attorney General’s Office.

Here’s how that process works:

Within 10 Business Days:

• The City must submit a written request to the Attorney General, stating the exceptions it believes apply.

• The City must also send you a copy of that request letter.

If the City does not notify you or request a ruling within 10 business days, the information is presumed to be public and must generally be released.

Within 15 Business Days:

• The City must send the requested records (or representative samples) and legal arguments to the Attorney General.

• You are entitled to notice of this submission, although you may receive a redacted version if it includes confidential material.

You Can Submit Comments:

If you wish to share information or context with the Attorney General,  you may send your written comments to:

Office of the Attorney General – Open Records Division
P.O. Box 12548, Austin, TX 78711-2548
Fax: (512) 494-8017

Note: The Attorney General cannot release the requested records. The AG’s role is solely to decide whether the law allows or prohibits disclosure.

If you believe that a governmental body has not responded as required by the Public Information Act, we recommend that you contact the Open Records Division Hotline at (512) 478-6736 or toll-free (877) 673-6839, your local District Attorney, or local County Attorney. 

To learn more about your rights and responsibilities under the Public Information Act (PIA), please visit https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/open-government/members-public