A record is “recorded information of any kind,” regardless of how it is stored, that is possessed by a public entity and either relates to public business or was prepared for use in connection with public business. This definition includes paper files, audio recordings, photographs, emails, text messages, and social media communications. (NDCC 44-04-17.1(16))
Examples of records include:
- Governing board meeting minutes.
- Ordinances and resolutions.
- Emails between officials discussing city or park district business
- Text messages between elected officials and constituents about public issues
- Invoices and utility billing records.
Importantly, messages regarding public business remain public records even when they are sent or stored on a personal phone, tablet, or computer. (August 2026)