In a recent meeting of the Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities, a significant discussion unfolded around the challenges local governments face in building trust with their communities. Mark, a representative from the San Francisco Bay Area, introduced a solution aimed at bridging the gap between local government and residents through a platform called REPD, short for "represented."

Mark began by highlighting a troubling trend: a growing distrust in local government, with 45% of Americans expressing unfavorable views. He illustrated this disconnect through a three-act play, where a well-intentioned government decision leads to misunderstandings and social media backlash. This cycle, he noted, is exacerbated by the lack of effective storytelling tools available to local governments, which often struggle to communicate their efforts amidst overwhelming workloads.

To combat this issue, Mark presented REPD, an AI-powered video engagement platform designed to humanize local government. The platform allows county staff to share updates and clarify decisions through short, accessible videos, fostering a more personal connection with residents. By providing a simple interface for residents to ask questions and receive immediate answers, REPD aims to alleviate the burden on government employees while enhancing transparency.

During the demonstration, Mark showcased how the platform works, emphasizing its user-friendly design that enables staff to record updates easily, even providing AI-generated scripts to assist in the process. This feature not only streamlines communication but also empowers local officials to engage with their community authentically.

The proposal for a partnership with Los Alamos County aims to implement this innovative tool, potentially transforming how local government interacts with its residents. By prioritizing storytelling and transparency, REPD seeks to rebuild trust and foster a sense of community, addressing the pressing need for effective communication in today's digital age. As the meeting concluded, the board members were left to consider the implications of this partnership and the future of local governance in Los Alamos County.