Celebrating Sunshine Week: The Clerk's Commitment to Open Government and Public Records

By Angel Colonneso

This week, my office celebrates Sunshine Week (March 16-22, 2025), an annual campaign that highlights the importance of public records and open government.

Sunshine Week reminds us that government transparency is not just a principle—it is a right. My office ensures that every person has access to public records and government meetings because an informed community is essential to our system of government.

As the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller for Manatee County, I am committed to protecting the public trust through integrity and transparency. This mission is more than a statement—it is a responsibility I uphold every day.

In addition to serving as the Clerk of the Circuit Court, I am the County Recorder, Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, Auditor, and custodian and chief financial officer of all county funds.

As County Recorder, my office processes thousands of records each year, from court filings to official documents. We maintain custody of these records and ensure they remain accessible to those who need them.

As Comptroller, I promote fiscal transparency by conducting independent audits, maintaining the Board of County Commissioners’ financial records, and producing annual financial reports. These reports, available online, help the public understand how tax dollars are managed and spent.

As Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, I ensure that meeting minutes are recorded and published, providing a clear record of votes, discussions, and decisions on the county budget, local policies, land use, and other projects. These minutes serve as a vital resource for anyone wanting to stay informed about county government actions.

Accessing public records should be quick and convenient. That’s why my office offers multiple ways for people to connect with us. Our mobile app provides direct access to public records, making it easy to find information from a cell phone. We publish a daily hearings docket so anyone can check which court cases are scheduled each day. And when you call my office, you will speak to a person—not a machine.

In April, my office will launch JustFOIA, a new online system designed to streamline public records requests. This system will allow for even faster response times and give people the ability to track their requests, reinforcing my commitment to transparency.

For more information about public records and services available through my office, visit www.ManateeClerk.com or contact us directly by phone at (941) 749-1800.

Published date: March 19, 2025