AI Could Enhance Democracy – ECan Councillor

Tuesday, 11 March 2025, 6:23 am
Article: David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

A Canterbury regional councillor wants his council to stay ahead of the opportunities and challenges with AI.

Speaking to Local Democracy Reporting, Cr Joe Davies, the youngest Environment Canterbury (ECan) councillor at 30-years-old, said councils need to get ahead by engaging in new technology, while also being aware of the risks.

‘‘You can either be reactive or you can get ahead, but I think new technology can actually improve democracy.

‘‘It is about being open to going with the tide instead of resisting it, because sometimes governments are good at resisting change.’’

ECan backed a motion by Cr Davies last month asking staff to provide a report on the establishment of an artificial intelligence working group.

Councils are already using new planning AI software to help navigate the complexity and speed up the consenting process, Cr Davies said.

New technology also has the ability to enhance democracy, he said.

‘‘I believe there is a new generation of politics, particularly among young people.

‘‘People actually do like democracy. They do like voting, if they can buy into it.

‘‘You can imagine what it would be like having a regional council app on your phone where you could vote on how your rates are spent.’’

Under the proposal, Cr Davies would chair a working group comprising Crs Nick Ward, Claire McKay, Deon Swiggs and Tutehounuku Korako, along with staff representatives.

The working group would work with staff and invite expert speakers to talk about advances and the risks of new technologies, Cr Davies said.

The proposal was not supported by all councillors, with Crs Genevieve Robinson and Paul Dietsche raising concerns about cyber security and the amount of energy AI requires.

Cr Robinson said AI has a reputation as an ‘‘energy hog’’.

Cr Dietsche said the carbon footprint of AI ‘‘is still to be dealt with’’.

North Canterbury councillors Claire McKay and Grant Edge backed the proposal.

‘‘If we don’t start understanding AI and the risks, then I think we are going to left in the dust,’’ Cr McKay said.

Staff are due to report back to ECan’s strategy and policy committee on April 2.

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