AI storms City Hall
Spokane uses AI to translate documents into different languages, while Sandpoint uses the tech to summarize documents for improved accessibility
SPOKANE
As Congress deliberates on the potential limitations of states’ authority to regulate artificial intelligence, some states are already embracing AI tools to enhance their daily operations. The City of Spokane took a progressive step six months ago by adopting an internal AI policy. One of the standout applications is a language translation tool available to city employees. According to city spokesperson Erin Hut, this innovative tool translates documents—such as city council agendas—into multiple languages, with the noble aim of making city information more accessible to Spokane’s richly diverse community. Meanwhile, further north, Sandpoint’s planning department has discovered the transformative power of AI in fostering community engagement and streamlining government efficiency. In February, Planning Director Jason Welker harnessed AI to distill a significant volume of public comments and written feedback regarding a proposed parking fee plan. The resulting AI-generated summary, along with the prompt used to create it, was thoughtfully included in the Planning and Zoning Committee agenda, enhancing transparency and engagement in the decision-making process.
Welker said using AI saved staff time and improved the department’s ability to communicate clearly with the public.
“I’ve got seven pages of public comments from emails and from written comments,” Welker said. “I could have had my admin assistant spend a day summarizing all those, but AI can do it better. Government is going to be more effective and efficient if they can effectively and efficiently use the technology tools available to us.”
While some cities are already putting AI to use, others are just beginning the process. Spokane Valley, for example, is still developing its AI policy. A city spokesperson said there is no regular AI use among city employees at this time.
These early steps by local governments come as Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joins nearly 40 other attorneys general in opposing a proposed federal amendment that would block states from regulating AI for the next 10 years. Brown called the move “dangerous,” emphasizing the need for states to retain the ability to protect their residents as AI technology continues to evolve.
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