Bashaw town council approved a one-time Candidly AI community engagement campaign during its Sept. 9 regular meeting.

The campaign will cost $2,900 plus GST, with the money coming from the town’s unrestricted cash surplus. Funding was not included in the current operating budget.

Residents will be invited to call a dedicated telephone number during an engagement period and answer guided questions about Bashaw’s future priorities. Participants will not require an application, online account or digital survey form.

Candidly AI will provide council with a report organized by common themes, along with transcripts and recordings of the calls. The information will support the next phase of the town’s strategic planning and future budget discussions.

Council previously heard a presentation from Candidly AI in August before asking administration to negotiate the price of the proposed campaign.

Bashaw currently receives community feedback through council members, the town office, staff conversations, email and social media monitoring. The telephone campaign provides another option for residents who may not attend meetings, complete surveys or share their views publicly.

Administration noted the service could reduce the amount of staff time required to develop questions, transcribe responses, analyze feedback and prepare a report.

The report also identified several limitations. Participation may not represent the entire community because residents must choose to call. Some residents may be uncomfortable sharing their views through an AI-based service.

“We are not building a data centre,” stated Mayor Cindy Orom adding  “I see more positives using a tool like this.”

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Theresa Fuller agreed.  “This could enhance our feedback. There is some value to it.”