Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Welcome to the City's AI Transparency Portal
The City of Santa Cruz is committed to using technology in ways that serve the public interest, strengthen trust, and improve the delivery of services. As part of that commitment, we are launching this AI Transparency Portal to provide residents with clear, accessible information about how the City uses artificial intelligence (AI). This portal explains what AI is, how it may be used in City operations, and the safeguards in place to ensure its responsible, ethical, and lawful use.
By sharing details about our AI systems, their purposes, and the safeguards in place, we aim to ensure that technology serves the public interest while respecting privacy, fairness, and security.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems or tools designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as analyzing information, identifying patterns, summarizing content, or assisting with decision making. AI does not replace human judgment; rather, when used appropriately, it can help City staff work more efficiently, improve accuracy, and enhance services for the community.
AI is transforming the way cities operate, from streamlining administrative processes to improving public safety and resource management. While these tools offer significant benefits, we recognize the importance of ensuring that their use aligns with community values, legal standards, and best practices. This portal provides information about the AI systems we use, their intended purposes, and the safeguards in place to protect fairness, privacy, and security.
Using AI Safely and Responsibly
The City uses AI in a thoughtful and measured way, guided by transparency, accountability, privacy protection, and fairness. Any approved use of AI is designed to support, not replace, human oversight and decision making. The City does not use AI to make final decisions that affect individual rights or access to services without appropriate human review. Key principles guiding safe AI use include:
- Transparency: We publish clear descriptions of AI systems, their intended use, and any potential impacts on residents. This includes providing contact points for questions or concerns.
- Privacy and Security: Protecting personal, sensitive, and confidential information. We do not input sensitive personal information into public AI tools. Protecting your data is our highest priority, and we only use approved, secure platforms for government business.
- Ethical and Fair Use: AI tools support, not replace, human decision-making. Critical decisions always involve human review, and accountability remains with City officials.
- Human Oversight and Accountability: Maintaining human responsibility for decisions
- Reliability: Using AI tools that are tested, monitored, and fit for purpose.
Generative AI Guidelines: When using Generative AI, like Microsoft Copilot or ChatGPT, the City of Santa Cruz has set guidelines when using these tools.
- AI tools are used responsibly to reduce the environmental impact
- Content is checked by staff before being shared with the public
- City staff will be transparent when content is drafted using Generative AI
- Person ore sensitive resident data is not entered into public AI tools
Best Practices for leveraging Approved AI Tools: When City employees use approved IT tools, they follow established best practices, including:
- Using AI only for approved purposes that align with City policies and public values
- Avoiding the input of confidential, personal, or sensitive information unless explicitly authorized
- Verifying AI generated content for accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness before use
This portal will continue to evolve as technology advances. We invite residents to explore, learn, and stay informed about how the City is responsibly using AI to better serve the community.
Explore the Portal
AI Systems in Use: Before the City buys or uses any new AI tool, we:
- Review the tool's privacy, security, and fairness
- Make sure it follows the City's AI policy
- Approve it through the Information Technology Department & City Attorney's Office
Learn about the tools currently deployed and their purposes:
- Placer AI is an approved artificial intelligence tool used by the Economic Development (ED) department. It is designed to enhance various aspects of business operations and growth strategies by leveraging geospatial data and analytics.
- Zabble Waste Management Containment Identification System - City staff use the Zabble Waste Contaminant Identification System to measure the fullness and contents of trash cans. The system aims to make it faster to identify waste content and aggregate insights across inspections.
City of Santa Cruz AI Policy: The City's AI Policy(PDF, 253KB) establishes a comprehensive, yet flexible, governance structure for AI systems, on or on behalf of, the City.