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1. How do I contact the SWA's Public Records Custodian?

Public Records Custodian: 

Kathleen Levas 
klevas@swa.org 
561-640-4000, ext. 4606
561-640-3400 (FAX) 
7501 N. Jog Road 
West Palm Beach, FL 33412

Submit a Public Records Request online»

2. What are public records?

Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes defines "Public Records" to mean all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software, or other material, regardless of the physical form, characteristics, or means of transmission, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency. Chapter 119 provides that public records are open to inspection by any person with the exception of those records designated exempt as detailed in Chapter 119 and other state statutes.

3. How can I request a public record?

Requests can be made online: 

To request verbally, call 561-640-4000 and speak with Kathy Levas (ext. 4606) during regular business hours of 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Requests can be mailed to:

Records Custodian
c/o Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County
7501 N. Jog Road
West Palm Beach, FL 33412

4. Are there fees involved in getting records?

Fees for public records are as follows:

• Electronic Records - No charge
• Single-sided copies - $0.15 each
• Double-sided copies - $0.20 each
• True Copy Certification (under Notary Seal) - $1 per certification
• Postage - By weight and delivery type
• Special charge - If a request requires extensive use of information technology resources or clerical or supervisory assistance or a review by legal staff, a special service charge may be imposed.

Records are not compiled in response to a public record request until payment has been received. You will be notified once estimated costs have been determined.

5. When will I get the records?

Florida law states that "an agency must acknowledge requests promptly and respond to such requests in good faith." This includes the time it takes to review the request, as well as search, retrieve and process the records for release. Some requests may only take a few minutes while others may take weeks. The length of time it takes largely depends on activity, volume, and scope. The Solid Waste Authority is committed to providing requested records as quickly and efficiently as possible.

6. Where can I find more information about public records?

Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes fully outlines public records law, including a list of exemptions.

7. What is the policy regarding email communication and public records requests?

Under Florida law, email addresses are public records. If you do not want your email address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing.