On Tuesday, I stopped by the Grow NELA office to request records related to the Richland Parish Data Center project and get a better understanding of why my emails were going unanswered.
I was told that as a private nonprofit entity, they are not required to provide records and that any further communication regarding such should be directed to their attorney.
While it’s true that private nonprofits are not always subject to the same public records laws as government agencies, that does not automatically mean records are inaccessible in all circumstances — particularly when public infrastructure, public funding, and governmental coordination are involved, which is what I am working on clarifying for the public.
Transparency can be simple. When an organization is operating in connection with major regional development, clarity builds public trust. Journalism aside, my personal opinion is that on a project of this magnitude and with so many rumors and reports of possible insider information, the easiest way to clarify things is by transparency without legal avenues.
My request was straightforward and respectful. I will now pursue documentation through the appropriate public agencies and legal channels.
The goal remains the same: transparency, accountability, and a clear understanding of process.
More to come.
