Question 15: Government Modernization

Official ballot wording

Should an Office of Data and Innovation be established to use data to improve city services, promote government transparency and civic engagement, ensure that the city uses artificial intelligence responsibly, and protect residents’ digital privacy?

Official explanation

Present situation: The Charter establishes a Department of Information Technology (Section 6-1201) responsible for operating and maintaining the City's information technology and telecommunications systems. However, the Charter does not designate any office or officer as responsible for citywide data governance; for using data to improve the delivery of services; or for protecting the digital privacy of residents. A Chief Data Officer and two data specialist positions were created in 2022 by City Ordinance 22-31. Ordinance-based positions can be modified or eliminated by future administrations without a public vote. If proposal passes: The Office of Data and Innovation, led by an executive officer and reporting to the Managing Director, will become an integral part of City government. The Office will provide Citywide direction for data standards and strategy, data privacy, responsible use of artificial intelligence, and innovation in City services. Establishing the Office of Data and Innovation in Charter will ensure that the City will employ experts in data, innovation, and artificial intelligence, as these play a growing role in our society.

This explanation is attributed to the linked official source.

Originating legislation or resolution

P143 ↗

Officials' votes to refer a proposal and the public's election vote on the question are separate records. A linked proposal alone does not establish approval by voters.

Public election results

No public election result has been imported for this question.