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Office of Citizen Complaints — Ombudsman
516 Third Ave, Rm W1039 
Seattle, WA 98104

206.205-6338 voice | TTY
206.296-0948 fax

ombudsman
@kingcounty.gov

King County Ombudsman’s Office Public Records Policy

How to Request a Public Record:

You may request a public record by filling out our Public Disclosure Request Form, by sending an email to ombudsman@kingcounty.gov, or by calling 206-205-6338. While not required, we do prefer all requests to be in writing as it helps alleviate confusion as to what records the requestor is asking for.

In order for us to respond accurately, please be sure to give a detailed description of the requested records or information, as well as, your current contact information. For example, if you would like a copy of the case file dealing with the complaint you filed with this office, your request might look like this:

  • “Please provide me with the complete case file in Ombudsman Case number 2011-12345 regarding my booking at the King County Correctional Facility”; or
  • “Please provide me with all correspondence between the Ombudsman’s Office and the Department of Development and Environmental Services regarding Permit number A123456789, which concerns an application to clear and grade a portion of my property located at 123 Elm Lane, Unincorporated, WA 98100.”

Once We Receive A Public Records Request:

Within five business days after receiving a request, we will do one of three things:

  • Provide the record(s);
  • Acknowledge your request and give you a reasonable estimate of how long it will take to respond; OR
  • Deny all or part of the request in writing, stating the reasons for the denial. State law requires us to cite the specific exemption from disclosure.

We redact or withhold any records or portion of records that are exempt from disclosure, and will specify the exemption that applies to any redactions or records withheld.

Is There A Charge For Copies?

We charge 15 cents per page for documents, according to state law (RCW 42.56.070 (7) and (8) and RCW 42.56.120). We require that all fees be paid prior to copying your documents.

You may elect to inspect records at no charge, by appointment only, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Persons reviewing documents will not remove, disassemble, or alter any documents.

Public Records Officer
Elise Rabbat
516 3rd Ave, Rm W1039
Seattle, WA 98104
(206)-205-6338

Alternate formats for persons with disabilities available upon request

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