Council adopts social-media personnel policy and approves no-fee accessory-building permit process

The City Council approved a new city personnel resolution to add a social-media policy to the personnel handbook and received an explanation of a no-fee residential accessory-building permit intended to help residents avoid placement mistakes.

Jessica read Resolution 24-8, which the council adopted. The policy states that city employees should avoid using social media during work time or on city equipment unless authorized, must not attribute personal views to the city and must refrain from harassment, bullying, threats or discriminatory comments. The resolution notes that violations may result in discipline up to termination.

Planning staff member Jennifer explained a no-fee residential accessory-building permit that will require applicants to identify the proposed location so staff can verify setbacks, easements and utility lines before construction. Jennifer said the program does not impose new substantive rules but helps residents avoid costly placement errors and ensures emergency access and setback compliance. The mayor and council expressed support for the proactive, no-cost permit.

Both items were presented as administrative or policy changes: the social-media policy was adopted by council action and the accessory-building permit is an administrative process approved at the planning-commission level and presented to council for implementation. Staff will make the permitting form and guidance available online.