Yes, definitely encourage you to do that. Most times, it will save you many troubles and will speed up your requests.
I'll take that in consideration, thanks. Anyway, if i decide to go with FOIL request, is there any fee i have to pay?
Indeed, there is. You'll be charged $10 fee in order to determine if your records are available, but be aware that you paying doesn't mean you'll receive any records at all. So, the fee is not refundable.
Are you going to request any copy of the documents?