Palm Desert City Council to consider adopting AI policy for city work
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Desert City Council will consider adopting a proposed artificial intelligence policy citywide, governing how AI can be used in city work during a council meeting later this week.
The proposed policy would allow routine uses of city-approved AI tools to assist city employees only, including interns, volunteers, elected and appointed officials, with city work.
Artificial intelligence is defined as a “machine-based system that uses machine learning or other computational techniques to infer patterns from data or other inputs and generate outputs, including content, predictions, recommendations, classifications, estimates or actions,” according to a staff report.
Officials said a key feature of the proposed policy is a risk-based approach, with the use of AI classified as low, moderate or high-risk based on capabilities, access and potential impact. Moderate or high-risk, which involves accessing sensitive or restricted city information, independently communicating or taking action without prior human approval, and taking an autonomous action that creates a legal or financial commitment for the city, will require approval from the Department Director or City Manager, according to a staff report.
In March 2026, the city established an artificial intelligence officer position, who will administer the policy and AI’s governance and risk classification program.
A requirement from the policy includes employees will be prohibited to use AI to “falsify or fabricate a city record or communication, falsely attribute to a real person or the city a statement or action not made not taken by that person or the city, or circumvent city security controls, access restrictions, or requires approvals.”
If approved, the policy would take effect immediately.
Thursday’s meeting will be held at 4 p.m. at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive.
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