11-17-2021 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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95 4. Employees should not comment on social media or publish something related to City business without identifying themselves and using a disclaimer such as, “I am an employee of the City of Little Canada. However, these are my own opinions and do not represent those of the City of Little Canada.” 5. If you wish to write an opinion based upon your work experience, you should not make reference to the City if you are not discussing City business. For example, you should write, “As a police officer….” Rather than “As a Little Canada Police Officer….” 6. City resources, working time or official City positions must not be used for personal profit or business interests, or to participate in personal political activity. For example, an employee must not use the City’s logo, email or working time to promote his/her side business. 7. Personal social media account handles and email addresses should not be tied to the City (e.g. a handle like “LittleCanadaOfficer” or use your City email address when posting). Occasional access to personal social media websites during work hours is permitted, but employees and agents must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the City’s Computer Use policy and the City’s Harassment policy. Employees and agents should also review the Ownership section of this policy (below). There may be times when personal use of social media (even if it is off-duty or using the employee’s own equipment) may spill over into the workplace and become the basis for employee coaching or discipline. Examples of situations where this might occur include: • Friendships, dating or romance between co-workers • Cyber-bullying, stalking or harassment • Release of confidential or private data; if there are questions about what constitute confidential or private data, contact the City Clerk. • Unlawful activities • Misuse of city-owned social media • Inappropriate use of the City’s name, logo or the employee’s position or title • Using city-owned equipment or city-time for extensive personal social media use Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis because the laws in this area are complex. If you have any questions about what types of activities might result in discipline, please discuss the type of usage with the City Administrator. Data Ownership All social media communications or messages composed, sent, or received on city equipment in an official capacity are the property of the City, and will be subject to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. This law classifies certain information as available to the public upon request. The City of Little Canada also maintains the sole property rights to any image, video or audio captured while a City employee is representing the City in any capacity.