26 - Searching social media posts in the "Sunshine"

Abstract: Transparency is a priority in Florida, thanks to the state's open government laws - known as "Government In The Sunshine" or "Sunshine Law." It provides the public with access to governmental records made as part of an agency's official business. These records include written documents, photographs, meeting minutes, and emails, but did you know all social media posts are included, too? As a special taxing district in southwest Florida, the Collier Mosquito Control District's records are subject to public review by request. A public records request arrived at the District focused on social media with the potential to require numerous hours of research. Specifically, the request was for any Facebook and Twitter post over a two-year period that included a list of key words. How much time would it take your organization to fulfill such a request? Sifting through thousands of posts may appear daunting at first glance, but learn how Collier Mosquito Control accomplished a monumental task in a matter of minutes.