AI Decision Audit Request - Fort Collins Bylaw

Technology and Data Colorado 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Fort Collins, Colorado residents and stakeholders can request an audit of municipal automated decision systems to review how city algorithms affect services and rights. This guide explains pathways available under Fort Collins municipal practice for transparency, public records access, departmental review, and appeals. It summarizes practical steps to request an AI decision audit, the likely enforcement and oversight roles, and where to submit forms or complaints to city offices. It also points to the city open data and municipal code resources that govern records and administrative procedure so requesters know what to expect during review.

What is an AI decision audit

An AI decision audit is a systematic review of an automated decision system used by the city to evaluate accuracy, bias, data inputs, decision logic, and impacts on residents. To locate available machine-readable data or models the city publishes, consult the City of Fort Collins open data portal Open Data[1]. For legal authority on records and administrative procedure, see the Fort Collins municipal code Municipal Code[2].

Start by identifying the specific system, department, and timeframe you want audited.

Penalties & Enforcement

Municipal penalties specifically tied to automated decision systems are not separately enumerated on the cited city pages; monetary fines or civil penalties for record or administrative violations are typically governed by the general municipal code and departmental rules. Where official pages do not state amounts or escalation, this guide states "not specified on the cited page" and cites the controlling source.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the Municipal Code[2] for any monetary penalties applicable to code violations.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence processes are not specified on the cited pages and depend on the code section and department enforcement policy Municipal Code[2].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease use, corrective plans, suspension of systems, injunctive relief or referral to court may apply where the city finds unlawful practice; the municipal code is the primary reference Municipal Code[2].
  • Enforcer and complaint pathways: complaints and records requests are processed through the City Clerk and the responsible department (e.g., Information Technology Services, Procurement, Police) via official public records and departmental contact pages Public Records[3].
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal time limits for administrative orders are not specified on the cited open-data or records pages; review procedures are set out in applicable municipal code sections and departmental rules Municipal Code[2].
When fines or deadlines are not listed on a city page, assume the municipal code controls and request the applicable section by citation.

Applications & Forms

To request an AI decision audit or obtain records needed for an audit, submit a public records request through the City Clerk public records process. The city provides instruction for making a request but specific form name or fee schedules are not published on the open data portal; see the City Clerk public records page for submission methods and any fee information Public Records[3]. If the department has a specific technology review or procurement oversight form, that form should be requested directly from the department named in your request.

How-To

  1. Identify the system and department: name the automated decision system, the service area, and the dates of decisions you want reviewed.
  2. Submit a public records request: use the City Clerk public records process to request model documentation, data schemas, decision logs, and policies; include preferred format and any confidentiality justification.
  3. Contact the responsible department: ask for a meeting or an internal audit record from Information Technology Services, Procurement, or the service department that operates the system.
  4. Request an independent audit or third-party review: if internal responses are insufficient, petition the appropriate oversight official (City Manager or City Council) to consider an independent audit.
  5. Appeal administrative decisions: if the city issues an order or denies access, follow appeal procedures in the municipal code or file an administrative appeal within the time limit specified in the controlling section.

FAQ

Can I request an audit of a specific algorithm used by the city?
Yes. Start with a public records request naming the algorithm, timeframe, and records sought; the City Clerk public records page explains submission and next steps.[3]
Will the city disclose proprietary code or data?
Disclosure depends on applicable exemptions, procurement contracts, privacy laws, and the municipal code; some information may be redacted or withheld according to statutory exemptions and contract terms.[2]
How long does an audit request take?
Response times depend on records volume and department processing; specific deadlines for audits or reviews are not specified on the cited pages and are governed by the municipal code and departmental practice.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Use the City Clerk public records process to obtain documentation needed for an audit.
  • Departmental review and municipal code provisions determine enforcement and appeals.
  • When in doubt, contact the responsible department and the City Clerk for guidance.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Fort Collins - Open Data Portal
  2. [2] Fort Collins Municipal Code - Municode
  3. [3] City Clerk - Public Records

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