An overview of 3D footprint building infrastructure in Orange County generated from satellite AI models. Credit: Dr. Kostas Alexandridis and Dr. Yan Li, OC Survey Geospatial Applications. The era of digital transformation is upon us. The recent advancements in the development and spread of artificial intelligence is only the tip of the iceberg. Certainly, the discussion and debate among proponents (see Bill Gate’s Blog ) and critics (see for example Chomsky’s, Robert’s, and Watumull’s article in NYT ) of the recent advancements is still going on. Yet, the undisputable facts are (a) these digital transformation technologies are here to stay, and (b) their proliferation in our wider communities, citizens and societies is beginning to have a real impact on our everyday lives. The role of regional and local institutional governance can be – and should be, catalytic. There are a few reasons why. First (and perhaps foremost), local government is in the heart of our communities and citizens. We interact daily and regularly with our citizens, we address and tend to citizen’s needs and aspirations, we strive to provide quality public services, and, we, ourselves are an indistinguishable part of these communities. Secondly, local and regional government institutions are […]