Carolina Beach 🏖️ why are comments turned off on your official Facebook posts?
Seriously, what is this?
These are public officials and public entities communicating with the people they serve. If Facebook is being used to conduct public business, distribute government information and engage with constituents, why shut the public out of the conversation?
And it’s not just Carolina Beach.
New Hanover County Commissioner LeAnn Pierce has had comments restricted on her Facebook posts. Commissioner Dane Scalise has done the same.
If you’re willing to use Facebook to tell the public what you’re doing, shouldn’t the public be able to respond?
Government transparency shouldn’t be a one-way conversation.
Open the comments. Let the public speak. #GovernmentTransparency #NewHanoverCounty #CarolinaBeach #PublicAccountability #pimom
In today's digital age, social media platforms like Facebook have become essential tools for local governments to communicate with their communities. However, when public officials restrict comments on their posts, it raises important questions about transparency and citizen engagement. From personal experience attending local town meetings in the area, I have witnessed firsthand how open conversations foster trust between government representatives and constituents. Closing comment sections not only limits feedback but can create a sense of alienation among residents eager to participate in their government’s decision-making process. New Hanover County commissioners, including LeAnn Pierce and Dane Scalise, have restricted comments on their social media posts, which goes against the spirit of democratic engagement. If these platforms are used for conducting public business and distributing information, they should serve as two-way channels where the public can voice opinions, ask questions, and hold officials accountable. It’s also worth noting that public institutions have legal and ethical obligations to promote transparency. Shutting down comments can unintentionally create an impression of secrecy or censorship, which ultimately harms public trust. Engaging constructively with constituents online not only shows openness but can also provide officials with insights that improve governance. For those concerned about inappropriate comments or misinformation, the solution lies in balanced moderation—not complete comment restrictions. Setting clear community guidelines and actively responding to questions can encourage respectful dialogue while addressing potential issues. Understanding the role of social media as a public forum is essential. Rather than treating it as a one-way broadcast tool, embracing it as an interactive space upholds democratic principles and strengthens the relationship between residents and their elected officials. Joining local advocacy efforts to call for reopening comment sections or petitioning for transparency measures can be effective ways for community members to ensure their voices are heard. Ultimately, true government transparency thrives on open communication and mutual respect, which social media comments can significantly foster when managed thoughtfully.