The County of San Mateo is exploring and using artificial intelligence, or AI, to improve how we serve our community. AI can help County employees work more efficiently, make information easier to access, and support better public services.
Our approach puts people first. AI is a tool to assist County staff, not replace human judgment or responsibility. County employees remain accountable for reviewing AI-generated information and making decisions, especially when services, benefits, employment, or other important outcomes may be affected.
We are committed to using AI responsibly. This means protecting privacy and sensitive information, checking information for accuracy, reducing bias, maintaining strong security safeguards, and being transparent about how AI is used. When members of the public interact with an AI tool, the County will provide notice and an alternative way to receive service.
As technology changes, the County will continue to evaluate AI tools carefully, train employees, engage the community, and update its practices to ensure AI is used in ways that are fair, secure, accessible, and aligned with the public interest.
What residents can expect
Human oversight
AI can support County staff, but people remain responsible for reviewing information and making decisions. Generative AI should not be the sole basis for County decisions, and human oversight is required in high risk uses.
Privacy and security
The County protects personal, health, and other sensitive information. AI tools must meet County privacy and security requirements, and sensitive information should not be entered into public or unapproved generative AI tools.
Fairness and accessibility
The County evaluates AI for potential bias and works to reduce unfair or discriminatory outcomes. Our approach is intended to support accessible services and respect individual rights, dignity, and privacy.
Transparency and choice
When you are interacting with an AI tool, the County will provide notice and offer another way to receive service. We aim to explain how County AI tools are used in clear, understandable terms.
Ongoing review
AI tools are monitored and evaluated over time for accuracy, security, and potential risks. The County also reviews vendors and requires departments to follow County AI policies and applicable laws.
AI Vendor Review
Before engaging a vendor that provides or uses artificial intelligence, County departments must complete an AI review. The review helps identify potential risks and confirm that the vendor’s AI technology and practices align with County policy and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
The review considers the vendor’s approach to responsible AI, including:
- Ethical standards and safeguards against bias
- Privacy, security, and data handling practices
- Transparency and human oversight
- Accuracy, reliability, and risk management
- Compliance with County AI policy and other applicable requirements
For AI contracts or projects requiring Board of Supervisors approval, departments must submit the completed AI Systems, Generative AI Solutions, and Systems Leveraging AI Questionnaire with the Board item.