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Kern LAFCO adopts AI use and electronic‑communication policies
Summary
The commission adopted an artificial intelligence policy and training framework that allows limited staff use of AI tools while prohibiting decision-making or sensitive uses; it also approved a disruption-of-electronic-communications policy establishing procedures if remote access is lost during meetings.
The Local Agency Formation Commission adopted two governance policies on June 17: a comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) policy, training manual and governance framework, and a disruption-of-electronic-communications resolution.
Executive Officer Blair presented the AI framework as defining four primary elements: authorized uses (drafting, summarizing, organizing), restricted uses (no legal advice, personnel matters, closed-session materials or sensitive data), staff accountability for all AI outputs, and an ongoing governance structure. "AI is a tool to support staff. It is not a decision maker and does not replace professional judgment," Blair said. Blair also disclosed staff used Microsoft Copilot (a government version) and noted the document itself was produced with AI assistance.
Commissioners asked whether public-facing documents should indicate AI assistance. Staff replied that the policy requires staff to review, verify, and correct AI outputs before public release and did not make a prescriptive requirement about labeling AI-assisted documents.
The commission moved, seconded, and approved the AI policy by roll call.
Separately, staff presented a resolution on how to respond to telephonic or internet disruptions: the commission will recess and attempt to restore service for up to one hour; if service is not restored, the commission must make a formal roll-call finding that a good-faith effort was made before continuing or adjourning. Commissioners adopted the communications policy by roll call.
Why it matters: The AI policy establishes local rules that limit AI use and place responsibility for outputs on staff, while the communications policy provides a defensible process to protect remote public access to meetings.
Next steps: Staff will integrate the policies into the commission’s policy manual and pursue training materials; staff referenced CSDA as a potential template for required fiscal/financial training under a separate statutory item.
