Local governments in New Jersey who boast transparency would like to see the state’s most advance open public records transparency platform just go away, but according to its founder, Gavin Rozzi, the platform is not going anywhere after his recently announced departure.
Charlie Kratovil, renowned for his work as the editor of New Brunswick Today, has been appointed as the new project leader of OPRAmachine. This transition follows Gavin Rozzi’s decision to step down, ushering in a promising new era for the acclaimed transparency platform.
Gavin Rozzi expressed his confidence in Kratovil’s ability to lead. “Charlie’s commitment to open governance and his impressive achievements in investigative journalism make him the perfect choice to lead OPRAmachine. I am eager to see how he advances the platform’s mission and expands its reach in providing New Jerseyans with critical access to information,” said Rozzi.
Kratovil’s appointment is met with great anticipation, given his notable contributions to community activism and journalism, particularly in advocating for transparency and public involvement. “Assuming leadership of OPRAmachine is both a significant responsibility and an exciting challenge. I am dedicated to building upon Gavin’s remarkable work and enhancing the platform’s influence as a pivotal tool for accountability in New Jersey,” Kratovil remarked.
Since its inception in 2017, OPRAmachine has been pivotal in transforming access to public records in New Jersey, establishing itself as a vital tool for journalists, researchers, and citizens alike. Under Rozzi’s guidance, OPRAmachine developed into a powerful platform, enabling extensive access to public information while safeguarding user privacy.
To date, OPRAmachine has facilitated over 49,000 public records requests to more than 1,300 public bodies, with participation from 6,933 confirmed users since 2017.
The handover to Kratovil ensures a smooth continuation of the platform’s services. Rozzi, who is set to embark on new projects, reaffirmed his support for OPRAmachine: “Charlie’s vision aligns seamlessly with the foundational goals of OPRAmachine. I am excited to see the platform reach new heights under his direction,” Rozzi added.
This leadership change will officially take place on January 1, 2024.