Local governments do not need to have every answer before beginning their AI journey. They need clear principles, accountable leadership, appropriate safeguards, and a commitment to learning responsibly.

Created for cities and counties that are starting from scratch, this playbook explains how to establish a scalable AI program without creating a large new bureaucracy. It includes recommended governance structures, policies, review processes, training programs, and ready-to-use templates that can be adapted to the size and needs of your organization.

Who the playbook is for

This playbook is intended for:

  • City and county managers and administrators
  • Elected officials
  • Information technology and cybersecurity leaders
  • Legal, privacy, and records professionals
  • Human resources and workforce development teams
  • Procurement and finance officials
  • Department directors and program managers
  • Employees responsible for improving government services

What is inside

Four Foundations for Responsible AI Adoption

1. Establish AI Governance

Learn how to designate an executive sponsor, appoint an AI coordinator, form a cross-functional review committee, create an AI inventory, and establish clear decision-making authority.

2. Evaluate and Implement AI Projects

Begin with a clearly defined government problem, not a product. Use a structured process to determine whether AI is appropriate, assess potential risks, test solutions, and measure results before scaling.

3. Support Workforce Productivity

Give employees safe, approved ways to use AI for drafting, research, summarization, data analysis, communications, and other administrative tasks while maintaining human accountability.

4. Build an AI-Ready Workforce

Create an ongoing training program that helps leaders, managers, technical staff, and employees understand how to use AI effectively and responsibly.