By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Despite the rapid advance of Artificial Intelligence, (AI) humans will remain in control of the municipality’s data.
That’s the word from Catherine Fitzgerald, director of technology and transformation for Chatham-Kent.
As part of a presentation to council at a recent meeting, Fitzgerald outlined the steps C-K is taking to ensure the proper guardrails are in place to protect the municipality’s information.
“My focus here tonight is how the municipality is taking a responsible, ethical and collaborative approach to evaluating the use of artificial intelligence technologies,” Fitzgerald said, pointing out that Chatham-Kent is learning about AI alongside the federal and provincial governments as it evolves.
“AI can assist people,” she said, but adding AI is often wrong and “does not replace municipal accountability.”
Currently, Fitzgerald said Chatham-Kent is using controlled pilots to analyze and evaluate how AI can and will be utilized to determine its value before making “broader decisions.”
Fitzgerald described AI as a type of software that recognizes patterns and produces a useful response. It can forecast, summarize, draft and organize information and assist employees in doing routine work.
However, she added “humans must remain responsible for the final product,” adding as it is evaluated, AI will be treated like an “inexperienced assistant.”
Chatham-Kent officials will continue to work with other leading agencies and municipalities in the province as they determine best practices for the new technology.
