City staff explain programs and initiatives in public meetings. These meetings are open to the public and often video recorded. The minutes from these meetings are public records.

The Hillsboro Reporter covers city council meetings and publishes what takes place.

With few exceptions, all the city’s records are available to the public including all financial transactions, receipts, and payments. Citizens may request copies of the budget or other financial records. 

In addition to reviewing records, it may be helpful to request a narrative or set up a conversation with City staff to get context for the records, because in filling an open records request the City will only provide material that already exists in written form.  For example, a records request might provide a receipt, but not an explanation of why the item was purchased or for whom.  City staff are happy to answer questions to give context if needed. 

If you would like to verify information from a meeting or discussion, you can ask City staff to provide documentation. You may also submit a formal public information request under the Texas Public Information Act.