FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are Public Records?
The Public Records Act RCW 42.56 is a Washington State law that governs the public's access to state and local government records. A public record is defined as any writing that is prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local government agency, and which contains information that relates to the conduct of government, or the performance of any governmental or proprietary function.
Q2: What information should I include in my request?
RCW 42.56.080 requires a public records request must be for identifiable records. When making a request, it is helpful to include as much information as you can. Including specific information such as subject matter; date/time; project, contract, account, and/or parcel number; specific document title; etc. aides Records staff in locating responsive records.
Q3: What if I only have a question or want general information?
General questions or requests for information are not typically Public Records Requests. The Port of Tacoma is not required to create new records, collect or analyze information, or conduct legal research under the Public Records Act. If you have general questions or would like more information about the Port of Tacoma that you can’t locate from our website, please call (253)383-5841.
Q4: When and How will I receive the requested records?
Within five (5) business days of receipt of the request, the Port of Tacoma will respond in one of the following ways:
- Provide the records (or a link to the portion of our website that contains the records).
- Request clarification if the request is unclear or does not sufficiently identify the requested records.
- Provide a reasonable time estimate for the search and production of any potential responsive records. For large or overly broad requests, the Port may provide records in a series of installments.
- Deny the request in whole or in part.
- Close the request advising a reasonable search was conducted and no responsive records were identified.
The time frame to complete a records request depends on the size and scope of the request as well as staff workload. The Port of Tacoma strives to provide records electronically for ease of access. Responses to public records requests will be provided electronically via the NextRequest portal unless otherwise requested.
Q5: Are any records exempt from disclosure?
Many public records have no disclosure restrictions and must be provided upon request. However, some records are exempt from disclosure (either in whole or in part) under the Public Records Act RCW 42.56. Many other exemptions and disclosure prohibitions can be found throughout other state and federal statutes.
Q6: How do I find records readily available online?
Use the following links to access records readily available online:
- Port of Tacoma Commission Records - Including agendas, minutes, meeting video and audio from 2008-Current.
- Contracting - Bid documents, procurements, awarded contracts & interlocal agreements. In compliance with RCW 42.56.270, contract records are not available until a contract has been awarded and finalized.
- Previous Public Records Requests & Responsive Documents - Search for records provided as part of previously submitted public records requests.
- Budget & Financial Documents - Including financial reports, annual reports & budget documents.
- Planning Records - Including Strategic Plan, Port Projects & Regional Projects.
Q7: What is the Port of Tacoma & What do they Do?
The Port of Tacoma is an independent municipal corporation that operates under Title 53 of the Revised Code of Washington. Through The Northwest Seaport Alliance, a marine cargo operating partnership of the Tacoma and Seattle ports, our trade customers move goods from all corners of Washington and the United States through the Tideflats to people all over the world. For more information on the Port of Tacoma, please visit our About Us page.
Q8: What is the Northwest Seaport Aliance & What do they do?
The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) is a marine cargo operating partnership of the Port of Seattle and Port of Tacoma. They are a leading container gateway in the United States. Under a port development authority, the NWSA manages the container, breakbulk, auto and some bulk terminals in Seattle and Tacoma. For more information on the NWSA, please visit their About Us page. To submit a public records request to the NWSA, please visit their request portal.
Helpful Links
Access to Public Records Procedure
Port of Tacoma - Public Records Information Page
How to Submit a Public Records Request and Create an Account