TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Michael A. Hursh, General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Board Policy for the Use of Artificial Intelligence at AC Transit
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ☐
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider Adoption of a Board Policy 444 - Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework & Guidelines.
Staff Contact:
Ahsan Baig, Chief Information Officer
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
Goal - Convenient and Reliable Service
Initiative - Infrastructure Modernization
The proposed policy is directly aligned with AC Transit’s strategic goals of enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and modernizing infrastructure. By adopting AI-driven technologies, such as adaptive scheduling, energy optimization, and real-time safety monitoring, the District can optimize key operations.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
The adoption of the Board Policy 444 does not require any specific allocation of funds, as there is no direct cost associated with its implementation. Therefore, there is no budgetary / fiscal impact. This policy is designed to establish guidelines and frameworks that leverage existing resources and budgets.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
The adoption of Board Policy 444 is a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency, improve service delivery, and ensure safety while maintaining ethical AI use and regulatory compliance. This policy provides a clear framework for integrating AI technologies into District operations, guiding initiatives like adaptive scheduling, energy optimization, and real-time safety monitoring. By setting these guidelines, we can confidently leverage AI to optimize processes, reduce costs, and support long-term innovation, all while safeguarding against potential challenges such as bias and privacy issues.
ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES:
Board Policy 444 supports AC Transit’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and inclusive public transportation by enhancing operational efficiency, decision-making, and service delivery. It aligns with the District’s vision of innovation and excellence by establishing a governance framework that ensures AI is used ethically, transparently, and in compliance with legal and regulatory standards. This policy promotes collaboration and partnerships, driving technological advancements while prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity for all staff and riders.
Board Policy 444 fully aligns with AC Transit’s mission, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced efficiency, ethical AI use, and improved service delivery, with no disadvantages identified.
ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS:
The Board could choose not to approve Board Policy 444; however, this is not recommended. The District’s use of AI will increase with technological advances. It is critical that the District have a policy that establishes standards for ethical and responsible use of AI.
PRIOR RELEVANT BOARD ACTION/POLICIES:
None
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Board Policy 444 - Artificial Intelligence Framework & Guidelines
Prepared by:
Tas Jalali, Head of Cybersecurity
Approved/Reviewed by:
Ahsan Baig, Chief Information Officer
Aimee L. Steele, General Counsel/Chief Legal Officer
Linda A. Nemeroff, Board Administrative Officer/District Secretary