Public records are documents that governments must make available to citizens, either routinely or upon request. Municipal public records include council meeting minutes, bylaws, budgets, financial statements, contracts, and various permits and licences. Freedom of information legislation gives citizens the right to request records not routinely published, subject to exemptions protecting privacy, security, and other interests. Modern open government initiatives proactively publish records online without requiring formal requests. Proper records management ensures documents are created, organized, retained, and disposed of according to legal requirements, maintaining accountability while protecting confidential information.