FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Douglas County selects A.J. Rhem & Associates to establish a Comprehensive AI Policy & Governance Framework

Douglas County, GA – September 3, 2025 – In a landmark move to ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible use of artificial intelligence, Douglas County has selected A.J. Rhem & Associates to develop and implement a comprehensive AI policy and governance framework for county operations. This initiative positions Douglas County as a leader in ethical and effective AI adoption at the county government level.

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into public services, from public safety and transportation to health and social programs, the need for clear policies, strong governance, and community trust has never been greater.

The governance framework will address critical areas such as:

• Ethical and Responsible AI Use: Ensuring fairness, transparency, and non-discrimination.


• Data Privacy and Security: Protecting sensitive information while enabling innovation.


• Compliance and Risk Management: Aligning AI systems with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.


• Training and Oversight: Building AI literacy for county leadership and staff.

 "Artificial intelligence can be transformative for local government, but only if it’s implemented with the right guardrails in place," "We’re honored to work with Douglas County to build a framework that not only enhances operational efficiency but also safeguards the values and trust of the community," said Dr. Anthony J. Rhem, CEO at A.J. Rhem & Associates.

The project will include an AI systems inventory and audit, stakeholder engagement sessions, and targeted training to ensure widespread understanding and adoption. The framework will also feature a roadmap for ongoing governance as technology evolves, keeping Douglas County ahead of both innovation and regulation.

 "We are committed to using technology in ways that serve our residents equitably and responsibly. This initiative allows us to take a proactive, thoughtful approach to AI, making certain it benefits our entire community," said Dr. Romona Jackson Jones, Chairwoman of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.

With this initiative, Douglas County joins a growing number of forward-thinking municipalities setting the standard for responsible AI governance in public service. It will potentially serve as a statewide pilot, providing an opportunity to establish a baseline of best practices and lessons learned that will guide and enhance upcoming county-level AI governance initiatives currently being scheduled.

About
A.J. Rhem & Associates is a leader in artificial intelligence strategy, governance, and policy development. Working with public and private sector organizations, the firm specializes in creating frameworks that ensure AI adoption is ethical, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals.

For the last three years in a row, Thinkers360 has named A.J. Rhem & Associates a Top 50 Thought-leading Company in Artificial Intelligence. Their patented algorithm measures true expertise across over 100 cutting-edge topics including AI, Gen AI, Agentic AI, and more.

Media Contact:
David C. Spencer Hickman
Principal Consultant
David.Hickman@AJRhem.com
312.396.4024                                                                                        
www.AJRhem.com