“No, Christmas lights are not prohibited,” the city of Grand Island wrote in a social media post Monday.
City leaders made the post after an artificial intelligence-powered video of Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele’s appearance and voice was posted online.
The video shows Mr. Steele appearing to discuss a resolution recently passed by the Grand Island City Council.
“Recently, the Grand Island City Council passed a resolution restricting visible Christmas decorations from December 1st to December 31st,” the video announces. “No outside lights or trees should be visible through your windows. If you do not follow these guidelines, your power will be cut off until January 1st. Thank you for your compliance and enjoy your holiday from the City of Grand Island.”
City communications manager Spencer Schubert said officials made the light-hearted social media post after Grand Island resident Scott Rupp posted the video online. Several inquiries were received from concerned citizens asking if it was real.
“No, Mayor Steele did not record a dramatic speech about ending Christmas cheer,” the post continued. “The only things Mayor Steele has banned this month (as far as we know!) are Grinch-level misinformation, tangled extension cords, burned out light bulbs, and an inflatable Santa that never stays upright. But holiday lights are safe. Good luck, Grand Island.”
Schubert said no citations have been issued, but said the city is monitoring malicious social media posts that attempt to impersonate city employees or spread false information.
