Should I File Freedom Of Information To Get Code Violations?

[Scott Johnson]

I mentioned this in another post, but I figure it's a good topic.

The city of Greenville, NC is telling me that code violations are not public record. This doesn't make much sense to me, and I'm searching for the ordinance that put this in place. 

- Should I send them a Freedom of Information Request to try and get the information? 

- Has anyone done this? 

- Is there a "non-city-related" way to get these violations (besides driving around looking for signs?)

- Are there other lists that may be effective as well?

Thanks in advance!