Building Your City’s AI Strategy

In 2025, the United States Conference of Mayors partnered with Google to help mayors and other city leaders implement the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in city governments. This guide offers a framework to help city leaders develop and host an “AI Adoption Workshop,” with the goal of increasing AI use to better deliver city services. AI offers cities significant advantages. From streamlining city operations to optimizing resources to improving citizen engagement, AI can automate certain tasks while freeing up city staff for complex, human-centric work. To get there, a well-structured adoption workshop can serve as a crucial platform to explore AI’s possibilities, learn from other cities’ experiences, and begin to discover the best way AI can support your community’s specific needs.

Ultimately, the workshop should catalyze the development of a comprehensive city AI usage policy, strategy, and/or playbook. The insights and collaborations generated will form the essential foundation for guiding both the bold and responsible adoption of AI, ensuring alignment with city values and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.