From Manual to Modern: The AI Transformation of Orange
Imagine a city where where staff hours are used on real public service—not paperwork. Where data drives better decisions and taxpayer dollars go further. That’s the power of AI—and it's time Orange caught up.
For too long, Orange has lagged behind neighboring cities in adopting 21st-century solutions. Only recently have we made it possible to apply for permits online. Cities like Irvine and Anaheim have offered these conveniences for years—streamlining internal operations, reducing wait times, and freeing up resources for real community improvements.
This isn’t about replacing workers. It’s about empowering them. When AI handles redundant administrative tasks, our staff can focus on public safety, infrastructure, parks, and housing—real priorities that impact your daily life.
Working on a number of committees including Vice Chair to the Traffic Commission, and someone who’s worked both in the private sector and municipal services, I’ve seen firsthand how slow systems drag everyone down—from city staff to residents. I’ve also seen how smart integration of tools like automated routing systems, predictive analytics, and digital permitting platforms transform how cities operate.
This is about leadership. As your next Councilmember, I will direct every department to evaluate and implement AI solutions that:
Automate repetitive tasks (e.g., payroll, scheduling, document processing)
Improve customer service via chatbots and 24/7 response systems
Forecast infrastructure maintenance needs before they become problems
Accelerate permitting, inspections, and code enforcement workflows
Cities that act now will attract jobs, talent, and investment. Cities that wait will fall behind. Orange can’t afford to be the latter.
Below is an example Memo for city staff to implement this initiative
Effective immediately, each department shall begin a full assessment and phased implementation of AI-powered solutions to improve efficiency, reduce administrative overhead, and modernize service delivery.
Objectives:
Reduce Manual Workload: Identify processes that can be automated (e.g., time tracking, invoice processing, internal reporting).
Improve Resident Services: Utilize AI-driven chatbots, online permit assistants, and workflow tracking systems.
Enhance Decision-Making: Implement data analytics tools for forecasting, trend analysis, and real-time dashboards.
Optimize Resources: Use AI to manage facilities, fleet, and maintenance more proactively.
Departmental Requirements:
60-Day Assessment: Submit a report outlining all repetitive or delay-prone processes that could be enhanced via AI.
90-Day Pilot Launch: At least one AI use case must be identified and piloted within your department.
Quarterly Review: All departments will report AI adoption status, outcomes, and cost savings in quarterly modernization meetings.
Funding:
Funds may be reallocated from existing discretionary line items or proposed through the mid-year budget adjustment process per Resolution 11565.
We will not fall behind any longer. Let’s become the model city Orange deserves to be.