Social media offers people a place to share thoughts and ideas, and it’s a fact that shocking news travels faster than the good news stories. When you are considering posting something about the municipality or is employees, wait 24 hours to reflect on the situation.  When posting, consider how you would feel if someone posted comments about you on social media.  Please ensure that the information you are providing is accurate, truthful, and respectful.  That way, everyone can benefit.

With more and more people relying on and using social media to stay connected to distant family, friends, and to the world at large, most people understand that it should be used with caution.  It is great for socializing and, depending on the source, it can be a great place for information.

When using social media, people should be aware that some of the information circulating may not be accurate, truthful, or transparent.  There are people and groups that intentionally post in a manner that promotes their position without the full story. 

Municipal staff are bound by legislation that requires them to protect the privacy of individuals and to keep some information confidential.  Therefore, staff can certainly not post information on social media sites correcting information that is confidential or private.  Municipal decisions are made based on a full information package, not one person’s interpretation of the event who does not have all the details. 

Further, municipal employees are professionals and are considered experts in their chosen field whether it is planning, public works, recreation, finance, fire and emergency services or the Clerk’s office.  Many employees are certified or licenced by regulating bodies and have an extensive working network.  Employees are the one constant in a municipal organization.  Council members can come and go with each municipal election, but staff have historical context on many files and properties which assist them in providing knowledgeable information to Council for their decision making.  They have a legal responsibility to the municipality and work everyday for the benefit of the citizens. 

Municipal employees are also bound by other legislation such as the Planning Act, the Ontario Fire and Building Codes, Zoning By-laws and other municipal by-laws governing the activities and operations of the municipality.  Enforcement of the rules is initiated on a written complaint basis and with the limited resources available to enforce, focusing on infractions that influence the health and safety of the citizens.  Legislation such as the Fire and Building Codes require the municipality to enforce provincial rules and exceptions or amendments to either are not possible at the municipal level so unfortunately, this limits the municipalities’ ability to assist a property owner.

With the large number of zoning by-law amendments and building permits being issued by the Township, it has proven that most residents are open and transparent about their goals, though the process might not be appreciated.  Many residents work with staff to achieve success. 

Unfortunately, some who face specific challenges with the Township, have taken to social media to voice their dislike or disapproval of a process or issue.  When the information being posted online is disrespectful, inaccurate or slanderous, it can be incredibly harmful.  When the postings are made in a respectful and meaningful way, it can create an opportunity for the resident and Township to discuss, reflect and possibly alter behaviours/processes. 

We encourage all to consider the following when reading a social media post:

• The perspective of the poster and what they are trying to gain from their post
• Whether ‘the story’ makes sense when read critically
• How facts can be checked

Your municipal staff are working to serve you and may be members of your community.  When staff are harassed online, they cannot respond, and it is up to the Township to speak out against it. 

When you are considering posting something about the municipality or its employees, wait 24 hours to reflect on the situation.  When posting, consider how you would feel if someone posted the negative comments about you on social media.  Please ensure that the information you are providing is accurate, truthful, and respectful.  That way, everyone can benefit.