Eric Bonds – 2026 Laurence E. Richardson Citizen Award winner

Concerned about the growing number of data center proposals in the Fredericksburg region, Eric Bonds organized a student  project to submit FOIA requests to local governments to determine how frequently non-disclosure agreements were being used. The results were striking: 31 of 35 localities had signed such agreements, raising concerns about how much information about data center projects was being withheld from the public until plans were fully formed.

As Bonds pursued additional records related to water and electricity usage, some localities denied his requests under FOIA exemptions. Rather than abandon the effort, Bonds filed petitions in general district court against two counties challenging those denials. Both localities ultimately agreed to release the requested records before a hearing was held.

“Eric’s work has been topical and effective,” said VCOG immediate past president Jeff South. Awards committee members also praised Bonds for engaging students in transparency efforts and helping local residents better understand how data center development could affect their communities.

The Laurence E. Richardson Citizen’s award honors the memory of a longtime Charlottesville broadcaster, a VCOG founding director, and the namesake of VCOG’s annual summer fellowship for rising second-year law students.

Newport News – 2026 open government award for government

The City of Newport News was selected for the government award for pairing strong leadership with consistent, practical implementation of the Freedom of Information Act. The city has developed what it calls a “virtuous circle” of proactive disclosure by using frequently requested FOIA records to guide what information is published online. By making high-demand records publicly available, the city reduces future FOIA requests, improves efficiency and expands public access to government information.

The approach requires coordination across departments and relies on public feedback to identify additional data for release, creating a continuous cycle of transparency, service and operational efficiency.