RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Rapid City Council has voted to postpone approval of a proposed artificial intelligence policy, directing city staff to develop a more detailed and comprehensive version of the guidelines.
The proposed policy outlines six key principles for the use of artificial intelligence by city employees, including human oversight, transparency, accountability, fairness, privacy protection, and security. However, some residents and council members raised concerns that the policy lacks clear definitions and specific guidance.
During public comment, local AI consultant Jordan Mason argued the draft was too vague, saying important terms such as “AI tools,” “sensitive data,” and “appropriate review” were not clearly defined.
Ward 5 Councilwoman Callie Meyer also expressed concerns about the growing use of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human judgment and critical thinking when using emerging technologies.
Rapid City Information Technology Director Jim Gilbert said the policy was intended to serve as a general framework, with a more detailed implementation toolkit planned for the future.
Following the discussion, Ward 4 Councilman John Roberts introduced a motion directing city staff to prepare a more robust AI policy. The measure received unanimous approval from the council.
No timeline has been announced for when a revised policy will be presented for further review, but city officials say additional work will focus on providing clearer standards and expectations for the use of artificial intelligence within city operations.
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