The Town of Taos has adopted an Information Technology acceptable-use policy for staff which takes into consideration social media and other computer use concerns and policies.

Though Facebook and Twitter or even the words “social media” are not mentioned in the new policy -- electronic newsgroups, blogs or chatrooms are. The policy says employees may participate in these when it’s relevant to their duties.

Even posting on their own behalf while using personal accounts and computers, employees should understand that while they may not be directly representing the town their actions may be construed as such and has the potential for negative public reaction.

Another interesting item in the policy is the town’s assertion that the Town has the technical ability to track all network usage

The policy says the Town has software and tools to monitor and record all Internet and network usage. Users should be aware they are capable of recording everything on the Town of Taos’s network.

This also applies to the public wi-fi connection at council chambers as well.