MattersAdministrationPOL-0172-ADMINFirst seen Jun 19, 2023Last discussed Apr 7, 2025
Social media policy amendment
ApprovedThe City updated its rules for official social media accounts, aiming to support safer, more respectful conversations and reduce the time staff spend monitoring comments. The policy covers how the public, employees and elected officials use City accounts and related content.
Where it stands: Policy amendment approved Apr 7, 2025.
Timeline
Every time this matter appeared in council records, newest first.
City approves updated social media rules
Council approved an amendment to the City's Social Media Policy (POL-0172-ADMIN).
Decision: Approved the Social Media Policy amendment.
Passed
- Gabe Haythornthwaite (Pete Road)Concerned · Social media policy
Warns that the social media policy and code of conduct could discourage legitimate political dissent by council members and the public. - Anita Horn (Savory Road)Asks · In-camera resolution
Requests more information about the in-camera resolution and asks council to consider property rights under the Canadian Bill of Rights. - Ren Louie (Bellamy Road)Mixed · Social media policy and tree bylaw
Supports option two restricting council membership in exclusive social media groups and says tree-bylaw costs could instead reduce borrowing and tax increases. - Sarah Plank (Goldstream)Concerned · Social media policy
Requests removal of the policy’s encouragement to post positively, arguing it could pressure council members to avoid criticism. - Lisa Foxall (Players Drive)Concerned · Agenda and social media policy
Objects to the packed agenda and raises safety and conduct concerns about council members’ participation in a social media group. - Nicholas Joel (Wallford Place)Concerned · Social media policy
Warns that requiring positive social media posts could inhibit critical thinking, which sometimes involves risking offense.
- Gabe Haythornthwaite (Pete Road)Concerned · Social media policy