Index of Exorbitant Cost Estimates Provided for Freedom of Information in British Columbia
In 2024 and on, there have been string of exorbitant Freedom of Information Cost Estimates provided to British Columbians seeking transparency and accountability from their government.
Are these mere isolated incidents, or are they part of a wider pattern of government entities using financial barriers to prevent access to information to the public?
This page will document and index this alarming pattern.
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Youbou homeowner astounded with huge bill from BC Assessment – Cowichan Valley Citizen “Andy Ross, an 80-year-old homeowner living on a fixed income in Youbou, has been charged $1,930 by BC Assessment just to access records related to his own property assessment appeal.”
BC Housing estimates charging an outrageous $1768.50 combined, for 3 Freedom of Information Requests to do with basic financial and other information regarding payments to a registered lobbying organization that represents development and real estate interests. – CRD Watch Homepage
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) determined that $1768.50 combined, for 3 Freedom of Information Requests is a reasonable cost estimate – no reconsideration was allowed by the OIPC. The estimated cost is now up to $1,876.50. – CRD Watch Homepage
BC Housing Launched a Quasi-Judicial Attempt to Deny me Access to Information. They Failed. – CRD Watch Homepage
District of Saanich: “I have determined that while the records concerning the Procurement Law Office may be of interest to you, there is not evidence to indicate this matter has an impact on the wider community.” – The Procurement Law Office’s advice was cited at a council meeting as justification to award senior district staff the ability to award millions in contracts without the approval of elected officials. – CRD Watch Homepage
The District of Saanich is hiding how much it paid the Procurement Law Office behind solicitor client privilege. – CRD Watch Homepage
Central Saanich Hires Lawyers to Hide Legal Bill from Lawyers, and McHattie Farm FOI Requests Triggers Escalation, Intimidation, and a $1,410 Barrier by Barry McLean – CRD Watch Homepage
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See also:
Petition · That Section 13 of British Columbia’s Freedom of Information Legislation FOIPPA be removed – Canada · Change.org
CRD Watch Homepage 