In a quiet corner of Southwest Michigan, the sort of place where road names double as genealogical records, something unexpected is unfolding. Amid the cornfields and committee meetings, a pair of rural governments are attempting what might best be described…
When Michigan released its statewide AI and the Workforce Plan in May, it checked all the right boxes: future-of-work planning, equity considerations, industry alignment, and even ethical AI guidelines. What it didn’t do was check the mailbox at the county…
“AI will free up staff to focus on strategic work.” We’ve all heard it. Maybe we’ve even said it ourselves, nodding along in meetings while wondering what this magical “strategic work” really means. It sounds perfect in theory. But then…
I. Introduction: The AI Promise and the Practical Reality for Local Government Artificial intelligence holds immense promise for local governments. As Director of the Digital Information Department for two counties in Michigan, I’ve seen firsthand how AI can streamline operations,…
