§ 57.13. Statement of legislative intent. The legislature finds that
public records are essential to the administration of local government.
Public records contain information which allows government programs to
function, provides officials with a basis for making decisions, and
ensures continuity with past operations. Public records document the
legal responsibility of government, protect the rights of citizens, and
provide citizens with a means of monitoring government programs and
measuring the performance of public officials. Local government records
also reflect the historical development of the government and of the
community it serves. Such records need to be systematically managed to
ensure ready access to vital information and to promote the efficient
and economical operation of government.