PROJECT BRIEF

BACKGROUND

The City of San Jose, California is at the heart of Silicon Valley and remains a well-known frontier for technological innovation and advancement, including AI and technology policy. This project addressed the challenge of identifying and mitigating the misuse of AI-generated content in the public input process for the City of San Jose.

AIMS

The main goal for the team was to create a presentation brief for San Jose City Council Information Technology organization stakeholders to discuss how the City can identify false AI-generated content in public input and identify best practices for mitigating false AI-generated public input.This initiative aims to enhance the integrity of public input processes in the face of evolving AI technologies.

METHODOLOGY

Through iterative literature reviews; case study analyses of existing regulations at various governmental levels; and regular consultations with City officials, AI policy experts, and technologists; the team developed comprehensive policy guidelines and procedural recommendations. The project was informed by a variety of resources to develop a framework to maintain integrity of public input processes in the face of proliferating AI.

DELIVERABLES

The project culminated in presentations to the San Jose City Council Information Technology department along with a detailed Policy Guidelines Manual. Key proposed solutions include (1) implementing new requirements and technologies for eComment user verification and email submission verification in addition to (2) conducting brief and effective annual generative AI skills training for City staff managing public comment submissions. 

IMPACT AND FUTURE WORK

By implementing the recommended technologies and training programs, the City of San Jose can significantly enhance the integrity, security, and reliability of public input from real constituents. Recommended future work includes (1) monitoring the effectiveness of implemented solutions, (2) adapting strategies as AI technologies evolve, (3) collaborating with other municipalities to share best practices, (4) exploring additional technological solutions for content verification, and (5) developing public education initiatives on responsible AI use in civic engagement.