Colorado Open Records Act-Frequently Asked Questions
The questions and answers provided below are intended to provide general information regarding the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA). Additional information on Metro Water Recovery’s CORA process is available in Metro’s CORA Procedure and CORA Policy.
What is CORA?
CORA is a state law providing the public with the right to inspect and obtain copies of certain public records maintained by Colorado government entities, including Metro Water Recovery (Metro). CORA requires government entities to make public records available to a requester unless an exception applies.
What is a “public record”?
Public records generally include writings made, maintained, or kept by Metro for use in exercising functions required or authorized by law or involving the receipt or expenditure of public funds. Public records may include, for example:
- Emails
- Letters
- Contracts
- Meeting materials
- Policies
- Reports
- Budgets
- Audio or video recordings
- Electronic records and databases
What records are exempt from public inspection?
Public records are open to public inspection by any person at reasonable times, except as provided at § 24-72-204, C.R.S. CORA divides records that are exempt from public inspection into two categories:
- Records to which a government entity may, at its discretion, deny access on the grounds that disclosure would be contrary to the public interest (§ 24-72-204(2), C.R.S.); and
- Records to which a government entity must deny access (§ 24-72-204(3), C.R.S.). These records include, without limitation, trade secrets, privileged information, and confidential commercial, financial, geological, or geophysical data.
How can I submit a CORA request to Metro?
Requests must be in writing and can be submitted electronically via Metro’s CORA portal or via email at CORA@metrowaterrecovery.com. If you are unable to provide a request electronically or in writing due to a disability, please contact Metro’s Legal Department for assistance (303-286-3000). Requests for records that are made via social media will not be accepted.
What information does Metro require to process my CORA request?
Requests should include a clear and specific description of the records sought. Requesters should provide as much detail as possible, including relevant dates, names, departments, and any other identifying information when known. Metro requires requestors using Metro’s CORA portal to provide an email address and recommends that all requestors provide a phone number in the event that questions arise or clarification is needed regarding a request. If Metro requires additional information to clarify a request, Metro will notify the requestor directly.
How long will it take Metro to respond to my CORA request?
Metro makes every effort to provide responsive records within three working days as required by C.R.S. § 24-72-203(3)(b). CORA allows an additional seven working days to make records available if a request involves extenuating circumstances or if records will require a significant amount of time to compile. If a request will take longer than three working days to process, Metro will communicate this information to the requester. Additional information regarding CORA response times is provided in Metro’s CORA Procedure.
Will Metro staff explain, interpret, or provide analysis of the records produced in response to a CORA request?
No. While staff are always available should a requestor have questions regarding processing status or seek to narrow/clarify a request, interpretation and analysis of records is beyond the scope of the Act. CORA similarly does not require Metro to create new records in response to a request.
Is there a cost to review or obtain records requested under CORA?
Yes, in certain circumstances. Information regarding Metro’s process for assessing and collecting CORA-related fees is provided in Metro’s CORA Procedure and CORA Policy.