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Wadena County adopts baseline AI policy to govern departmental use of generative tools
Summary
The county board adopted an AI policy effective May 1, 2026, establishing safeguards for county data and requiring department-head and IT approval for approved AI use; County Attorney Kyra Ladd emphasized compliance with department-specific rules.
The Wadena County Board of Commissioners adopted a baseline artificial intelligence policy on April 21 to guide departments’ use of AI tools and protect county data.
IT Coordinator Neil Hutson presented the policy as "a framework for responsible stewardship that establishes the necessary safeguards to protect County data while empowering departments to use AI as a force multiplier for efficiency." County Attorney Kyra Ladd advised that departmental uses must be approved by each department head and IT; she stressed that unsanctioned AI use would not be authorized by the county.
Commissioner Bryan Winkels moved to adopt the AI policy as the county baseline effective May 1, 2026. Commissioner Jon Kangas seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.
The policy was approved after review by the IT and Personnel Committees. The adoption creates a countywide baseline but allows departments to adopt more restrictive procedures as needed for compliance and confidentiality.
