In the heart of Leesburg, Virginia, the Technology and Communications Commission convened on May 30, 2025, to discuss the evolving landscape of public communication through social media. The meeting, led by Public Information Officer Cara Rodriguez, highlighted the town's strategic shift towards more visual and engaging content to better connect with residents.

Rodriguez opened the session by addressing the changing preferences of the public, noting a significant decline in subscriptions to traditional news releases. In response, the town introduced a weekly newsletter, allowing residents to receive a concise summary of local news without the inundation of multiple emails. This initiative has seen a growing subscriber base, reflecting a successful adaptation to the community's needs.

Assistant Public Information Officer Leah Kosen followed with compelling statistics, revealing that over 5.2 billion people globally use social media, with Facebook remaining the dominant platform. The town's social media presence has flourished, boasting 23,700 followers on Facebook and a growing audience on Instagram and YouTube. However, the town has opted to discontinue its TikTok account due to state regulations.

The discussion also touched on the potential of emerging platforms like Blue Sky, which offers a decentralized approach to social media. While it presents opportunities for broader audience engagement, concerns about political bias and the challenges of managing misinformation were raised. Kosen emphasized the importance of maintaining a focused and manageable social media strategy, suggesting that three well-maintained platforms are preferable to a scattered approach.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose regarding the monitoring of town employees' social media activity. Kosen clarified that while the town cannot oversee personal accounts, they ensure that official communications adhere to established policies. The commission is committed to transparency and community engagement, responding to inquiries within 24 hours and utilizing social media as a critical tool for disseminating information during emergencies.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the town's communication strategies. As Leesburg continues to navigate the digital age, the emphasis on visual storytelling and community interaction positions it as a forward-thinking municipality, eager to embrace the future of public engagement.