REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Update on the Human Relations Commission First Year of Work and Use of Interpretation Software (Wordly)
Report
BACKGROUND
On January 12, 2021, Councilmember Alysa Cisneros sponsored a study issue on creating a Human Relations Commission (HRC) focused on addressing unfair treatment in the community based on race, gender, sexual orientation, citizenship, or other protected characteristics (Study Issue OCM 21-02). Co-sponsored by Councilmembers Fong, Din, and Melton, Council ranked the study issue as part of the 2021 Study/Budget Issues Workshop. Staff presented findings during a Council study session in March 2022. With majority support from the Council, the FY 2022/23 Budget included ongoing funding to support the establishment of the Commission.
As part of a successful recruitment process, the City Council appointed a Spanish-speaking English language learner (ELL). Given the high cost of translation services needed to support the newly established HRC, staff researched and found a lower-cost alternative option. The City contracted with Wordly, a company providing real-time artificial intelligence (AI) translation services in over 50 languages.
The Commission began meeting in July 2023. In September 2023, the City Council requested a Council report on the HRC's first year of work and the effectiveness of AI software usage for translation services in City programs and services. This memo summarizes the work and accomplishments of the HRC and evaluates the efficacy of the City's Wordly pilot.
EXISTING POLICY
Council Policy 7.2.19 on Boards and Commissions
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a "project" with the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5) in that it is an organization or administrative activity that will not result in a direct or physical change in the environment.
DISCUSSION
Setting the Human Relations Commiss...
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