Decherd Updates Social Media Policy Following Employee Controversy

DECHERD, Tenn. — In response to recent controversy over online comments made by city employees, the Decherd Board of Mayor and Aldermen has unanimously approved an updated social media policy aimed at clarifying professional conduct and protecting the city’s public image. The resolution was adopted during the board’s October meeting.

According to the new policy, its purpose is to establish clear boundaries between appropriate and inappropriate online behavior by city personnel, ensuring that employees’ use of the internet and social media reflects professionalism, safety, morale, and efficiency. Officials said the move was necessary after employee posts about work-related matters sparked community concern.

The resolution emphasizes that improper online activity can cause “actual harm and disruption to the city workforce” and undermine public confidence in Decherd’s ability to deliver services. While the policy acknowledges employees’ First Amendment rights, it also underscores that free speech does not eliminate accountability.

“The First Amendment provides a guarantee that a person can say what they want, but it does not make a person immune from the consequences,” the policy states. Violations of the policy may result in disciplinary action “up to and including termination,” depending on the severity. Employees are expected to maintain professionalism both on and off duty, avoiding any conduct that damages trust in city government or disrupts departmental operations.

  The policy also restricts employees from posting in ways that could be interpreted as representing their department without authorization. It cites examples of prohibited conduct, including speech that harms relationships among co-workers, threatens violence, encourages harm, or damages public confidence in city services.

City leaders said the update is intended to preserve public trust while protecting employees’ careers through clear expectations and responsible online engagement.

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