Board debates limits on individual board-member social media accounts in first reading of policy

The board took a first reading of a proposed Work Policy on individual board-member social media use that would distinguish between personal social posts and posts made in a director’s official capacity. The draft policy separates personal accounts and orientation materials from accounts used to communicate board business, and includes provisions on ethical and professional conduct.

A central point of contention was whether official board-member social-media accounts should avoid posting statements that imply a predetermined position on matters expected to come before the board. Supporters of such a restriction argued that publishing firm positions in an official account risks pre-empting discussion, misleads the public about the board’s collective deliberations, and can undermine the board’s ability to learn from colleagues. Opponents said elected directors may have convictions they should be able to express, and cautioned against curtailing free expression in a manner that could be seen as limiting speech by elected officials.

The draft also includes language asking directors to avoid the dissemination of speculation or unverified information about ongoing situations and warns against using threatening or profane language. Staff said the policy would apply to “official” board-member accounts while personal accounts would be covered by orientation materials and suggested best practices rather than formal sanctionable rules.

Board members requested more examples from other districts and asked staff to bring model language and comparable policies to a future meeting. The item was set for a future second reading after staff compiles sample policies and clarifies wording around “official” accounts and emergency communications.