Town council sends artificial intelligence policy to committee for further discussion

By Rob Vogt
Citing the need for further discussion, Claresholm town council has sent to committee a draft policy governing the use of generative artificial intelligence.
At its June 22 meeting, council heard a presentation from Patrick Gaede, the town’s municipal intern, presenting the draft policy.
He explained as artificial intelligence continues to develop, administration has determined a policy is required to safeguard, manage and control the use of artificial intelligence within the municipality’s operations.
This applies to all employees, council members, volunteers, and other authorized users of the Town of Claresholm’s systems, ensuring they will exercise caution, restraint and common sense when using generative artificial intelligence.
Artificial intelligence use in the workplace has increasingly become prevalent and requires the town to ensure personal information is not put into publicly available AI generative tools, such as Chat GPT.
This policy outlines the differences between publicly available AI generative tools and generative AI systems controlled or configured by the municipality.
Use of AI tools must be consistent with all applicable laws and regulatory requirements. Failure to do so constitutes an unlawful disclosure of information.
The intention of this policy is to ensure all authorized users within the town’s operations comply with applicable laws and promote transparency; effectively use AI tools in municipal operations; and minimize the risk of exposing sensitive or confidential information.
“I think this is premature,” said Coun. Rod Kettles, adding more information is needed.
Coun. Seth Wagner agreed, noting things will change as artificial intelligence evolves.
“I’m worried we’re limiting staff with this policy,” said Mayor Brad Schlossberger, adding more training and insight is needed.
Wagner said artificial intelligence is a wonderful tool if used correctly.
Kettles agreed with the idea of more training.
Abe Tinney, the town’s chief administrative officer, said administration is looking for some parameters for staff to operate within.
He suggested bringing this issue to the town administrative services committee for further discussion.
Council then agreed to direct discussion on the generative artificial intelligence usage policy to the administrative services committee.