1-11-17. Computerized records.

(1) The County retains and reserves to itself the right to use any type of non-verbal or non-written formats for the storage, retention and retrieval of government records, including but not limited to, audio tapes, video tapes, micro-forms, and any type of computer, data processing, imaging, or electronic information storage or processing equipment or systems, which are not prohibited by state statute, and do not compromise legal requirements for record storage, retrieval, security and maintenance, to store and maintain County records. All computerized and non-written format records and data which are designated and classified in accordance with the Act and this ordinance, shall be made available to a requester in accordance with this ordinance and the Act.

(2) The methods of access to records in non-written formats or data processing systems shall be as determined appropriate by the agency director of the agency maintaining the records, considering all circumstances. Access may include, but not be limited to the following:

(a) by using a County computer terminal or other viewing or listening device to retrieve data directly from the terminal screen or device; provided, however, that due regard shall be exercised to ensure that any non-public records will not be accessed, retrieved or displayed on the device and that records are not erased or damaged;

(b) by providing paper or "hard" copies of record printouts or by providing magnetic tapes, disks, or other means of electronic storage containing the non-written format or data processing system records; or

(c) by the use, where appropriate, of remote terminals which have access to County computer, data processing or electronic information systems pursuant to a formal two-party contract permitting such remote terminal access and provided that due regard shall be exercised to ensure that non-public records will not be available by remote terminal access.

(3) Computer software programs are not considered a record. Software programs shall not be subject to disclosure under this ordinance or the Act, including copyrighted software and other copyrighted materials which have been purchased by or licensed to the County and software and other materials which have been copyrighted by the County. (Ord. 95-19, 9/12/95; Ord. 92-5, 9/1/92)