Pomona AI Ethics Rules & Bias Audit for City Tools

This guide explains how Pomona, California evaluates and governs the ethical use of artificial intelligence in city-owned or city-contracted tools, who enforces rules, and how residents and staff can request audits, report bias, or appeal decisions. It summarizes relevant municipal code and city technology policies, notes what is and isn’t specified on official pages, and provides concrete next steps for compliance and public requests.

Scope & Definitions

“City tools” means software, automated decision systems, or algorithmic processes used by the City of Pomona for public functions such as permitting, benefits determination, licensing, enforcement, or public safety. “Bias audit” refers to an independent or internal review of an algorithm or dataset to detect disparate impacts or unfair outcomes.

Applicable Rules and Authorities

Pomona’s current enforceable instruments for city operations are the municipal code and official city policies for procurement, data, and technology. The municipal code does not currently include a specific AI or algorithm governance chapter; official technology and procurement policies are the primary operational controls Municipal Code^[1] and the City Information Technology department policies City IT Department^[2].

• Definitions, procurement, and contracting clauses in the municipal code determine supplier obligations and contract terms.
• City IT policies establish data handling, security, and vendor assessment procedures.
• Existing privacy or non-discrimination rules apply to outcomes from automated systems.

Penalties & Enforcement

There is no dedicated AI penalty schedule published in the city code or on the IT policy page; monetary fines specific to AI tools are not detailed on the cited pages, so exact fine amounts are not specified on the cited page Municipal Code^[1]. Enforcement typically follows existing municipal enforcement and contract-remedy mechanisms.

• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: contract termination, vendor debarment, injunctive or court action, and orders to suspend use of a tool are the likely remedies under procurement and contract clauses.
• Enforcer: City of Pomona Information Technology Department and Code Enforcement or the City Attorney enforce contract and ordinance compliance City IT Department^[2].
• Appeals/review: appeal procedures for administrative actions follow municipal code appeals or contract dispute resolution clauses; specific time limits for AI-related appeals are not specified on the cited pages.
• Defences/discretion: exemptions, procurement variances, or documented risk mitigation plans may be considered under existing contracting rules; specifics are not listed on the cited pages.

Applications & Forms

No dedicated public form for requesting an AI bias audit is published on the municipal code or IT policy pages; residents should submit requests through the city’s public records or complaint portals or contact the IT department directly City IT Department^[2]. If a standardized audit request form is later adopted, it will be posted by the responsible department.

Common Violations & Typical Outcomes

• Using unvetted datasets that produce disparate impacts — possible contract remedies or suspension.
• Insufficient vendor documentation or lack of risk assessments — vendor corrective action or requirement to conduct audits.
• Failure to comply with data-retention or privacy rules — enforcement under privacy or records laws.

Action Steps

• Report bias or harm: file a complaint with the City IT Department or Code Enforcement and copy the City Attorney.
• Request an audit: submit a written request describing the tool, decision impacted, dates, and persons affected.
• Pay fees or penalties if charged: follow invoice and payment instructions from the City Finance or Purchasing office.
• Appeal: use the contest or appeal route in the municipal code or contract dispute clause; check deadlines with the City Clerk.

FAQ

Does Pomona have a specific AI ordinance?

No; there is no specific AI ordinance published in the municipal code as of the cited pages. See municipal code reference below.^[1]

Who investigates alleged algorithmic bias?

The City IT Department coordinates technical reviews and Code Enforcement or the City Attorney manage enforcement or contract remedies. Contact details are in the Resources section.

Can a resident request a third-party audit?

Yes; residents may request an audit, but the city’s acceptance of third-party audits depends on procurement and contract terms; submit a written request to the City IT Department.

How-To

1. Identify the tool: note the department, vendor, decision type, and dates.
2. File a written complaint to City IT and Code Enforcement, including evidence and contact information.
3. Request a bias audit and indicate whether you seek an internal review or an independent third-party audit.
4. Follow up on outcomes and, if necessary, file an appeal under municipal procedures or pursue contract remedies.

Key Takeaways

• Pomona currently governs AI through existing procurement and IT policies rather than a standalone AI ordinance.
• Report bias to City IT and Code Enforcement and keep detailed records.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of Pomona - Information Technology
• City of Pomona Municipal Code (Municode)
• Community Development - Planning & Building
• City Clerk - records and appeals

1. [1] Municipal Code - City of Pomona
2. [2] City of Pomona - Information Technology Department