The public’s right to know has come to the forefront in recent weeks as the community has struggled to find out more information about the Mifflin County Regional Police Board of Directors and its decision to investigate Chief William Herkert. The board placed Herkert on paid administrative leave, effective Sept. 18. What resulted was a public outcry into how that decision was reached, how the investigation is being conducted and to what information members of the public are entitled. In essence, these looming questions revolve around two key tenets of a democratic government: open meetings and open records. The Sentinel in recent days has provided articles, editorials and supplemental resources to help educate the public about those tenets. Thrust into the spotlight have been Pennsylvania’s Right to Know Law, which deals with accessing public documents, and the Sunshine Act, which deals with the public’s right to attend government meetings.