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Montgomery County commissioners are seeking applicants for a new advisory council focused on artificial intelligence. The council’s goal is to ensure AI is used effectively and ethically for public benefit, according to Neil Makhija, Chair of the County Board of Commissioners. “People think of AI in something that’s in the future, but it’s being used all the time,” Makhija explained in an interview. “For example, when there’s a crime that is committed and we have video of the perpetrator, whether it’s a serious violent crime like a murder, we use AI technology to do facial recognition and find out who that person is.” The council will have up to 15 members and is currently reviewing applications, with 70 received so far. Makhija emphasized the importance of expert input from various fields including infrastructure, human services, election administration, courts, and criminal justice. He added, “It’s really a broad call for anyone who thinks they have something they can provide to better advise the county.” Community members are encouraged to apply by the application deadline, May 31. This initiative highlights the county’s proactive approach to integrating AI responsibly into everyday life, ensuring technology serves the public good while addressing ethical considerations.