Item - 2015.GM1.8

The Government Management Committee requested the City Manager (Civic Engagement Office), in conjunction with the Director, Strategic Communications and the Chief Information Officer, Information and Technology, to report to the Government Management Committee as soon as possible, on opportunities within the City for the use of social media for civic engagement.

The use of social media has grown significantly. Individuals are relying heavily on social media as a source for news, public engagement and information sharing. Increasing, the City's use of social media for civic engagement is a step in the right direction, as the City moves forward with a mandate to become increasingly open to public input.

Traditionally civic engagement opportunities are posted on the City's website and print media outlets.  Posting opportunities through social media such as Twitter, Facebook, You Tube and Blogs is the next natural step casting a wider net for potential meeting interaction. Affording the public ample notification and ease to respond to calls for public input will streamline and create savings in both time and money.