The concept of “transparent government” has been a goal of Indiana lawmakers and media for many years. There is a state statute which dictates when elected officials of one governing body can meet without public notice and when they are required by law to provide that notification, if any media, such as the Comet, requests it.

The law can sometimes seem vague. What defines a “governing body” and what is a “meeting” exactly? Is the police merit board a “governing body” and subject to public notification when a meeting is scheduled? When the commissioners adjourn a bi-weekly meeting and then three community members wander up to the dais and discuss other county business with all three of them at one time, is that a violation?

Those who violate this particular law are only bound to uphold it by virtue of their consciences. There are no legal penalties for non-compliance.

But we believe, for the most part, violations happen because of ignorance, not due to malicious intent.

The Comet staff has decided to help area lawmakers, elected officials and the general public learn and understand what is contained in the state’s Open Door Law. An “Open Door Law Training Seminar” featuring Steven Key, the counsel for the Hoosier State Press Association (HSPA), has been scheduled for Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. at the Delphi Public Library.

All elected officials in the county, including towns/city, townships, county government, as well as all taxing entities, such as school boards, are invited to attend. Community members are also welcome to learn about how the law works in communities.

Key will explain the law using practical examples from the office of the public access counselor and his own files. He will give specific situations in which the law is most often violated and explain how to avoid those situations.

Key is a willing recipient of quires from newspapers around the state, including the Comet, about interpretations of the Open Door Law. He writes a bi-weekly column for HSPA newspaper, “The Publisher.” He is also a presenter at the annual HSPA Newsroom Seminar every December.

Key knows the problems faced by reporters because he used to be one. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in journalism from Butler University in 1977 and law degree from Indiana University School of Law in 1994. Currently, Key represents HSPA before the Indiana General Assembly, lobbying for the public’s freedom of information rights and the interests of the Indiana newspaper industry.

The Comet staff urges elected officials, those considering running for an elected office, and those serving on appointed boards and committees to attend the training seminar on Nov. 30. Learn how to make your service to Carroll County truly transparent!