This information is intended to act as a guide and explanation to the District of Carleton North Social Media Policy.

Q. Who can post on the Municipal Media Accounts?

A: Only designated employees will have access to post. (CAO, Recreation Manager and Tourism Manager will determine who is authorized)

Q. Does the policy control what Councillors post on their personal Social Media?

A: No, the policy does not apply to personal accounts when acting in a personal capacity.  However, the policy encourages anyone identifiable as connected to the Municipality to make it clear they are expressing personal opinions and not speaking on behalf of the Municipality.

Q. Can staff/Council members Share/Comment on posts?

A: Yes. However, when adding personal commentary ensure it does not create the impression of speaking on behalf of Council or the Municipality.

Q. How will negative/inappropriate comments from the public be handled?

A: These comments will be hidden, deleted or comments may be restricted. 

Q. Who decides if a post violates the policy?

A: The CAO or designate will determine this based on the policy.

Q. Does the Municipality respond to every message or comment?

A: Monitoring is done on a regular basis during regular business hours. Questions and comments are generally acknowledged within two (2) business days, but not all comments will receive a direct response.

Q. Is Social Media considered an official way to submit service request or complaints?

A: No, Social Media is not a formal intake channel. Official requests or complaints must be submitted through the official channels, such as website forms, email, in person or by contacting the Town office.

Q. Does the Municipality have to keep Social Media Records?

A: Yes, these are considered records and are subject to records retention rules and legislation such privacy and access to information laws.

Q. Can the Municipality promote community events?

A: Yes, events may be shared if they are municipal events, community initiatives aligned with municipal values or if they are submitted to the DCN Community Calendar to be share in the Week-At-A-Glance posts.

Q. Will the Town share Emergency Information?

A: Yes, but emergency information shared on the Town’s Social Media do not replace official emergency communication channels.

Council may request this policy may be reviewed and updated as necessary, especially as platforms and best practices evolve.