UTICA, N.Y. — Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente, Jr. on Wednesday said the county has finalized the framework for the county’s artificial intelligence (AI) task force.
It marks a “significant step toward the responsible evaluation and use of artificial intelligence across county government and the broader community,” per the announcement.
With the framework in place, the county will now move forward with assembling the task force committee.
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“This framework ensures that Oneida County approaches artificial intelligence thoughtfully, responsibly and with the public interest at the forefront,” Picente said. “AI has the potential to improve efficiency and service delivery, but it must be implemented with clear safeguards, transparency and accountability. This task force will help us strike that balance as we move forward.”
First announced in Picente’s State of the County Address earlier this year, the artificial intelligence task force (AITF) will serve in an advisory capacity, charged with evaluating opportunities, risks, operational impacts, and ethical considerations associated with AI technologies. Its work will focus on improving government operations, supporting economic development, strengthening governance and data protections, preparing the workforce, and increasing public understanding of AI.
The county expects that membership will include about 10 representatives from key sectors, including information technology, planning, human resources, public safety, ethics, economic and workforce development, education, business and community advocacy, along with private-sector technology expertise. The AITF will meet at least monthly and may establish sub-working groups as needed.
Initial deliverables are anticipated within three to four months and will include an AI readiness assessment and preliminary opportunity and risk analysis. Final policy and governance recommendations are expected within eight to 12 months, at which time the county executive may determine whether to continue the task force as an ongoing advisory body, Oneida County said.
