City considers adding tech-savvy residents to guide local tech policies

The city is exploring the idea of forming a new advisory group focused on technology. This board would help elected officials understand complex topics like artificial intelligence, privacy rules, and surveillance tools. During a late-night meeting, council members reviewed an early draft of the plan but didn’t make any final decisions. One big debate centers on whether a young person should join the board. Some leaders argue that including a youth member would bring fresh insights, since teenagers often use technology differently than adults. Others worry that certain discussions might require special security clearances that young people can’t get. As a compromise, some suggested inviting youth representatives only for specific meetings rather than giving them a permanent seat.Another topic of discussion was whether data centers—large facilities that store digital information—should fall under this board’s responsibilities. Some officials think the group could help analyze the environmental impact of these centers, like their energy and water use. Others fear it might overlap with existing city boards that already handle planning, utilities, and sustainability. Most seemed to prefer keeping the board’s focus on emerging tech rather than infrastructure. The proposal isn’t final yet. After more revisions, it will return to the council in about six weeks for a first review.