Washoe County to launch Search Assistant to improve digital access to county information

by | Nov 13, 2026

Finding information about Washoe County services and resources will be a lot easier with the launch of the Washoe County Search Assistant, a conversational, artificial intelligence-powered tool now available on washoecounty.gov. The tool will launch on Tuesday, Nov. 17.

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the AI-powered Search Assistant helps residents, businesses and visitors find answers to common questions about county services, programs and resources. Unlike traditional keyword searches, the conversational tool can interpret questions phrased in everyday language and identify relevant information beyond exact keyword matches, making it easier to find answers without navigating multiple webpages. The tool supports more than 100 languages and dialects and provides references to the original county website content used to generate its responses. 

“For many residents and visitors, our website is their first point of contact with Washoe County,” Behazad Zamanian, Washoe County Chief Information Officer, said.  “The Search Assistant is another way we’re making it easier to connect people with the information and services they need. By leveraging technology to provide quick, convenient access to County information, we’re continuing to look for ways to improve our customers’ experience.” 

The launch supports Washoe County’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and effective communication, as outlined in Washoe County’s FY2027-29 Strategic Plan. By incorporating new technology into its digital services, the County aims to improve its online experience and make information more accessible to those who rely on it. Future improvements to the Search Assistant will incorporate other key county departments including Emergency Response, Northern Nevada Public Health, Washoe County Library, Sheriff’s Office and other county sites.  

The Search Assistant uses information published on the Washoe County website to generate responses. Users can review the references supporting an answer and access the original County webpages for additional information.  

The Search Assistant is one of several resources available to help residents and visitors connect with Washoe County. For assistance with nonemergency county services or questions that require additional support, residents can call 311 to speak with a knowledgeable service representative. 

How to access the Search Assistant, launching Nov. 17

Visit washoecounty.gov and select the Search Assistant button in the bottom-right corner of any page. Select “Start Chat” and enter a question to begin. The tool will use artificial intelligence to identify relevant information and generate a response. 

For more information, visit washoecounty.gov or review the Search Assistant Terms and Conditions. 

FAQs

1. What is the Washoe County Search Assistant?

The Washoe County Search Assistant is an AI-powered search tool designed to help residents and visitors quickly find information about Washoe County services, programs, and resources.

2. Who can use the Washoe County Search Assistant?

Anyone can use the Washoe County Search Assistant, including residents, businesses, and visitors looking for information about County services and resources.

3. How do I use the Washoe County Search Assistant?

Using the Washoe County Search Assistant is easy!  

  • Visitors at washoecounty.gov can access the Washoe County Search Assistant by clicking the “Search Assistant” button in the bottom-right corner of any page on washoecounty.gov.  
  • Once opened, select “Start Chat” to begin, then enter and send your question in the message field.  
  • The Search Assistant will use artificial intelligence to understand your request, find relevant information and generate a response.  
  • Sources used to generate the response are available by clicking the “References” button to view the full list of references or by selecting the numbered reference buttons within the response to access individual sources directly.  
  • Additional controls allow visitors to clear conversations and start a new chat using the “Clear Chat” button, or minimize and maximize the Search Assistant window using the buttons in the top-right corner. 

4. Where does the Washoe County Search Assistant get its information?

The Washoe County Search Assistant uses information from Washoe County’s website. When available, references are included to easily review the original sources. 

5. Why should I use the Washoe County Search Assistant?

The Washoe County Search Assistant makes finding information easier by providing quick, easy-to-understand answers without requiring navigation through multiple webpages. 

6. Can I trust the information provided by the Washoe County Search Assistant?

Yes, however the Washoe County Search Assistant does use artificial intelligence to generate responses, which may occasionally contain inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated information. We encourage you to verify important information using the provided references or by contacting 311 or the appropriate Washoe County department.  

Responses generated by the Search Assistant are for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional or legal advice. For additional information, please review the Search Assistant Terms and Conditions.