City staff presented a second-touch draft of a social media policy on Sept. 2 that clarifies permitted uses of city accounts, retention of social-media records and standards for using generative artificial intelligence in city communications.
The draft makes clear that the city web site is not treated as a social-media site, specifies which city staff may post on official accounts, and allows staff to like, repost or comment on partner organizations’ posts when matters relate to official city business. The draft also adds language allowing the city to limit social-media activity during emergencies or to correct widespread misinformation.
New language sets standards for generative-AI use: all AI-generated content must undergo human review for accuracy and validation before dissemination; AI output should be a starting point, not a substitute for professional judgment; exclusively AI-generated images/videos must include attribution; and AI use must respect individual privacy and avoid amplifying bias. Councilmembers asked staff to expand retention language so that interactions made using city profiles on external sites are captured and to have the city attorney confirm legal requirements for public comment and records retention.
Staff said the next step is to incorporate council edits and return the policy for adoption.