The city recognizes the role that social media tools play in the lives of city government and the individuals that serve the city and acknowledges that its employees have the right under the state and federal constitutions to speak out on matters of public concern not related to their official duties. This policy is not intended to interfere with any city employee or official’s right to freedom of speech. However, the city does have the right to establish minimal and reasonable restrictions on the use of social media by city officials and employees who are communicating city information to encourage constructive and positive use of social media for city government communications. Therefore, all uses of social media on behalf of the city, or in any manner that represents the city or constitutes communication by the city, must comply with the following standards:
(A) No employee or city official may establish, use, or terminate an official city social media identity, account, profile, page, or site without the approval of the applicable department head or the mayor.
(B) The mayor shall designate persons who are authorized to post social media content on the city’s social media accounts and no other person(s) shall post content without prior authorization from the mayor.
(C) No information, link, or other materials or communications may be posted on a departmental social media account that is not related to the mission, services, and business objectives of the city.
(D) Social media accounts established by the city are to be used for city business or informational purposes only. Communications and postings that are not related to a city or department business purpose are prohibited.
(E) Any posts dealing with political or legislative initiatives or issues must be specifically approved by the mayor prior to posting.
(Ord. 23-01, passed 4-11-23)