The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is adjusting its use of social media and launching a new e-newsletter to better align with its values and encourage respectful and responsible communication.
“While the CVRD remains committed to informing and engaging with residents on our services and programs, our communication methods are changing and evolving to better support accountable and trusted sources of information and provide more opportunities for direct communication to residents,” explains CVRD Board Chair Will Cole-Hamilton. “Unfortunately, certain social media platforms have become outlets for misinformation and disrespectful commentary, so we are moving in another direction.”
The CVRD is undertaking a few changes and actions to invest in platforms where residents are, provide opportunities for increased direct communication with residents, and restrict comments that at times contain misinformation and disrespectful content. These changes include:
- Discontinuing paid advertising on Meta Products.
- Restricting all comments on all Meta Products. Residents can still send direct messages through messenger on the platform, call or email the CVRD office.
- Closing down the CVRD X account and launching an account on the BlueSky platform.
- Creating a new online CVRD e-newsletter. Residents can sign up for the free monthly e-newsletter that will provide accurate/up to date information affecting the community and increase knowledge around the projects and services taxpayers are receiving.
“These changes will help ensure the CVRD can continue to reach residents and provide trusted information in a respectful manner,” explains Jennifer Steel, Manager of Communications and Engagement. “Official public engagement opportunities have never been completed through social media channels and the CVRD will continue to complete public engagements within the community through face-to-face sessions and Engage Comox Valley, the online engagement platform.”
Residents are encouraged to sign up for the free monthly e-newsletter at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/subscribe.
Follow the CVRD on social media at these trusted sources of information:
- Facebook - @comoxvalleyrd
- Instagram - @comoxvalleyrd
- NEW – BlueSky - @comoxvalleyrd
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.
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Media Contact:
Jennifer Steel
Manager of Communications and Engagement
250-334-6063