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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, businesses, and how we live our daily lives. From streamlining operations to improving services, AI’s potential to enhance local government functions is an exciting prospect for Opelika. As mayor, I am eager to explore how we can responsibly and effectively integrate AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and accessibility for our residents.
Opelika is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of AI adoption thanks to the cutting-edge research happening right here at Auburn University. The Artificial Intelligence at Auburn, AI@AU, initiative is leading groundbreaking work in AI applications across multiple fields, from cybersecurity to healthcare and smart infrastructure. As a city, we have an incredible opportunity to collaborate with these experts to explore how AI can improve municipal operations, enhance public services, and drive economic growth.
Beyond our city, Auburn University is also playing a key role in a broader regional effort to advance AI innovation. Auburn, along with other SEC universities, is a member of the SEC Artificial Intelligence & Data Science Consortium, which brings together institutions across the conference to collaborate on AI research and best practices – and using athletics as a platform for innovation, data-driven decision-making, and performance optimization.
This kind of partnership reflects the growing recognition that AI is not just a tool for the future, it is something we need to understand and integrate today. Much like these universities are learning from one another, cities like Opelika can look to other communities that are successfully leveraging AI to improve services and governance.
As Opelika continues to grow, I look forward to learning from other cities—both in Alabama and across the country—that are leading the way in adoption of AI. One of AI’s most useful applications in local government that I look forward to exploring is streamlining and improving basic city services. Streamlining trash pickup and permitting, traffic signals that adjust in real time to reduce congestion, and sensors that can detect road damage before potholes form – we owe it to Opelika residents to leave no stone unturned when it comes to these new advancements that improve city services. And of course, let us not forget about the incredible workforce and economic development potential offered by responsible integration of AI. As industries innovate, and small businesses increasingly adopt this technology, we are all better off.
Throughout my years of service as mayor, I have seen how innovation and strategic planning can shape a city’s future. Opelika has always embraced forward-thinking solutions, whether in economic development, infrastructure, or public safety. AI presents a new frontier of possibilities, and by embracing it responsibly, we can improve services, create efficiencies, and build a smarter, more connected city.
This is an exciting time for Opelika. As we continue this journey, I invite residents to share their thoughts and ideas on how AI could help shape Opelika’s future. Let us explore these possibilities together.
