Review and Update City's Social Media Policy

The City first created a web-based Social Media Policy in 2010 and revised the policy periodically throughout the years to keep up with developing trends. Most recently, the policy was reviewed in 2018, however, given recent questions and concerns from the City Council, staff thought it beneficial to review and update the existing policy.

The City of Ramsey's Communications and Events Coordinator is the primary manager of the City's social media accounts. Ramsey's current social media platforms are Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The City of Ramsey's social media platforms are subject to the Minnesota Data Practices Act (Chapter 13) and the City's Records Retention schedule (ADM 03050). As no transactions of City business are conducted through social media accounts, the City is only required to retain social media messages until read (per the City of Ramsey's Records Retention Schedule).

Any staff member can request a post be made to social media. This is an informal process, usually made via email request. Social media posts are made at the discretion of the Communications & Events Coordinator under the supervision of the City Clerk and City Administrator. In summary, the City's current social media policy states that:

1) Almost all information that is posted to social media also exist on the City's website
2) Posts must also comply with the City's Personnel Policy, mission and vision, principles and core values
3) Social media posts are subject to the MN Data Practices Act and Records Retention Schedule
4) Users and visitors of City of Ramsey sites will be expected to behave respectfully
5) The City of Ramsey reserves the right to restrict or remove content
6) The City of Ramsey reserves the right to block or delete users
7) Various sections address freedoms of employees and elected officials and the use of personal versus professional social media platforms
8) Various sections define the role and powers given to the Communications and Events Coordinator
9) Section 12 outlines the City's approach to various community partnerships versus advertising

Q2 2022

N/A

Communications & Events Coordinator Megan Thorstad

It is recommended that the City Council review and update the City's Social Media Policy to suit the City's current needs.