TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Salvador Llamas, General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Media and Public Statement Policy
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ?
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider the adoption of Board Policy 455 - Media & Public Statement Policy. [Requested by President Shaw - 10/23/24; Director Walsh - 11/13/24]
Staff Contact:
Robert Lyles, Media Affairs and Strategic Initiatives Manager
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
There is no strategic importance associated with this report. However, maintaining credibility and transparency in the District's official communications remains essential to engagement with riders, stakeholders, and the many communities served by the District.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no budgetary or fiscal impact associated with this action.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
The proposed Board Policy 455 - Media & Public Statement Policy reinforces the District's established commitment to credibility, transparency, and consistency in both internal and external communications. The Policy establishes clearly defined procedures for developing and issuing official District statements, including a structured approval process and the formal designation of an authorized District spokesperson. These provisions ensure that media inquiries are handled by trained staff who can provide accurate, thoroughly vetted, and legally sound information on behalf of the District.
In addition to clarifying the roles and responsibilities associated with public communication, the Policy offers clear and accessible guidance to employees and Board Members regarding the authorization and release of official statements. It outlines expectations for coordinating information, maintaining message alignment, and upholding communication standards when representing the District. At the same time, the Policy affirms the individual right of employees and Board members to express personal views, provided such expressions are no...
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