Prioritizing Positive Communication: Why We're Turning Off Replies on X

With more than 150,000 followers across our social media platforms, the City of Kingston uses X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube to share information, updates and stories about projects and initiatives happening in the municipality. Social media has been a key part of connecting with the community since our first tweets and Facebook posts more than a decade ago. 

However, the social media landscape is changing quickly and dramatically, and we recognize we also need to adjust to social media user behaviors and policy changes taking place at each of the platforms we have a presence on. Specifically, recent changes at X (formerly Twitter) have restricted access to social media analytics that help us make decisions about communications campaigns, increased the number of spam accounts following and messaging the City, increased the volume of inflammatory comments from users on the platform, and decreased the effectiveness of X as a way for us to share information and engage with the community.  

Beginning Feb. 1, 2025, we will remove replies and direct messaging on our X @CityofKingston and @KingstonTransit accounts. We know that thousands of people in Kingston continue to rely on X to stay updated, and we will continue to use X to share information. The City hasn’t used X as a paid advertising platform since 2022, and this paid advertising approach will not change. 

Reaching out to us to share an idea or feedback on municipal services or projects is always welcome on other social media channels, as well as on Get Involved Kingston, our public engagement platform. Our Customer Experience team, either online, in person or by phone, is also available to answer questions about services or to connect you with staff who can help resolve a customer service concern. Please remember when you’re reaching out to us on these other channels that we are also people who work, live and play in Kingston. We approach all interactions with respect and professionalism and ask that community members do the same. 

Thank you for helping us ensure an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone.