Citizens’ rights and obligations under New
Jersey’s Open Public Records (OPRA) and Open Public Meetings Acts (OPMA) will
be the subject of a seminar March 23rd at the Clementon Community
Center, 165 Gibbsboro Road from 11:30 am to 5 pm.
The
seminar is sponsored by the NJ Foundation for Open Government, a state-wide
organization which advocates for transparency in government, educates residents
in their rights and how to get information and data using the laws and files
court actions to force compliance.
“We
focus on Municipal Governments and Boards of Education where some of the worst
abuses of withholding information from the public occur,” said Walter Luers, an
attorney who is President of the Foundation.
“Government, in our view, functions best in the bright light of day and
we try to help citizens shine that light on their governments,” Luers
said. The foundation has participated in numerous
suits against governing bodies for violations of the Open Public Records act.
Two
panel discussions will be held followed by audience questions. The fee of $10 on line and $15 at the door
covers lunch and refreshments. The cost
to students with valid student ID is $3
Hon.
Samuel Cianfarini, Committeeman West Deptford Township will be recognized for
his work in promoting and advocating for open government. Two Citizen Awards are to be announced.
1:15-2:30: PANEL 1.
Open Public Records Act and Open Public Meetings Act from a Government
Perspective. This panel will discuss OPRA and OPMA issues from a government
perspective and the challenges they face. Moderator: Walter M. Luers,
Esq.
Panelists: Anthony H. Ogozalek Jr,
Esq. of Beckman, Roth, Ogozalek and Perez, Gibbsboro, NJ Solicitor: West
Deptford Township, Clementon Housing Authority Assoc. Counsel: Burlington
County Board of Social Services Honorable Richard Direnzo, Councilman Haddon
Heights Borough Ginny Murphy, Vice President Washington Township Board of Education
(Gloucester County) Vice President Gloucester County School Board Association New
Jersey School Board Association Board of Directors, Member
2:35-3:45: PANEL
2. Open Public Records Act and Open Public Meetings Act from a Public
Perspective. This panel will discuss case law and issues facing the public in
regards to OPRA and OPMA. Panelists: Walter M. Luers,
Esquire; John Paff, Citizen Activist; Krystal Knapp, Professional Journalist
4:00-5:00: Question and Answer
about OPRA/OPMA, group discussions.
To participate in the seminar
register at Njfog.org or call 908-894-5656
