FOIA Request Highlights Address Confusion Outside Cape Charles Town Limits

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Town officials are reminding residents and property owners that Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests submitted to the Town of Cape Charles must pertain to properties located within the town’s official boundaries, following a recent request involving an address outside municipal limits.

According to town staff, a FOIA request seeking environmental information was submitted for a property believed by the requester to be within Cape Charles. However, upon review, officials determined the address in question lies outside the town’s jurisdiction.

The situation prompted multiple follow-up emails—four in total—from the requester, requiring staff to clarify a common source of confusion: many properties in Northampton County, particularly those south of Eastville, carry a “Cape Charles” mailing address despite not being located within the incorporated town limits.

Mailing addresses do not necessarily reflect municipal boundaries.

Town staff emphasized that while they strive to assist all inquiries, FOIA requests directed to the Town of Cape Charles can only be fulfilled for records and properties that fall within the town’s legal jurisdiction. Requests concerning properties outside those limits must be directed to the appropriate county or state agency.

Officials encourage residents and requesters to verify whether a property is within town limits before submitting a FOIA request, in order to avoid delays and ensure requests are handled efficiently.

For questions regarding property jurisdiction or assistance with FOIA submissions, individuals are encouraged to contact the Town Clerk’s office.

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Wayne Creed

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