Notice Regarding Member Information Request by a Third-Party

To All RCH Members,

As a valued member of our community, your trust and privacy are of utmost importance to us at RCH. It is in this spirit that I bring to your attention a recent Open Records Request that may involve the disclosure of certain member information.

On March 20, 2024, we received a formal request under the Texas Public Information Act from Mr. Michael Easter, seeking to access the names, addresses, and related contact information of all RCH members. Mr. Easter, is a fellow RCH member and water customer, with no official affiliation to our Board or management. The purpose cited for this request is to facilitate communication with our members concerning the upcoming election of Board members; however what he intends on doing with the information or how he intends on safeguarding your data is unclear.

Given the nature of this request and the potential implications for your personal data, we wish to inform you, with transparency and caution, about the steps we are taking to address this matter:

Protection Under the Law: The Public Information Act recognizes the sensitivity of personal data. Specifically, Sections 552.117 and 552.1175 protect the home address, contact information, and other personal details of certain categories of individuals, including but not limited to, peace officers, firefighters, and military personnel, among others.

Action Required from Protected Members: If you belong to one of the protected categories under Section 552.117 or 552.1175, we urge you to inform us of your preference regarding the disclosure of your information. An "Election Regarding Access to Personal Information" form is being mailed for your convenience. Completing this form will enable us to safeguard your data in accordance with your wishes.

Review by the Attorney General: Given the uncertainty surrounding the intent behind Mr. Easter's request, we have sought the guidance of the Office of the Attorney General. This step ensures that any decision to release member information adheres strictly to Texas law, balancing the principles of transparency with the imperative of privacy.

Your Right to Object: While the Public Information Act generally mandates the disclosure of requested information, exceptions exist. Should you wish to object to the release of your records, you may submit written arguments to the Attorney General, detailing the applicable legal exceptions. 

Please note that your inaction may be interpreted as a lack of interest in withholding your records from disclosure.

In the coming days, you will receive a letter in the mail outlining these points, along with a form for those protected under the statute. We encourage you to review these materials carefully and take the necessary steps to safeguard your privacy if applicable.

Your cooperation and understanding in this matter are greatly appreciated. We remain committed to acting in the best interests of our members, ensuring that your rights and data are protected to the fullest extent possible.

Sincerely,

David Naylor
Board President, RCH Water Supply Corporation