3. Contents of a written request.

The act specifies only that the request for access to records other than those covered in section 30-4-30(d) be in writing. S.C. Code Ann. § 30-4-30(c). This writer's recommendation is to direct a letter to the agency head or chief administrator unless a person has previously been designated by the agency to respond to requests for records. The request should be for access to inspect records unless you have already determined the document you want. The more narrow or precise the request the lower the cost will be for access or copying. It is appropriate in the letter to request a reduced fee where the request is in the public interest. It is appropriate in the request to solicit an itemized estimate of costs for providing access or copies and to suggest a method or time of payment of any deposit required. If you desire a copy in an electronic format, the format should be specified. It is also a good practice when requesting electronic copying to supply the disk or tape for the copy. The law is silent on requests for access to records that may be created or come into the possession of the public body in the future, but those agencies that are cooperative will respond favorably to the request, while those agencies that resist public intrusion into their domains will probably reject continuing requests for access as the records become available.