Let’s be honest: when AI comes up in 311 conversations, it can bring a mix of curiosity, uncertainty, and a healthy dose of “is it going to help or hurt us?” Between vendor hype, headlines about job replacement, and unclear guidance, it’s no surprise many 311 teams feel hesitant or choose to hit pause altogether.
But while caution around AI makes sense, standing still has its own consequences.
In this discussion, we’ll take a practical, approachable look at what happens when 311 organizations delay engaging with, or even simply learning about, AI. We’ll move past buzzwords and fear-based narratives to explore how inaction can quietly impact staff workload, institutional knowledge, resident experience, and long-term sustainability.
What we’ll explore:
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The less-obvious costs of waiting while demand continues to grow
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How resident expectations are changing, often without anyone announcing it
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Why “not yet” can slowly turn into “now we’re behind”
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How 311 leaders are starting AI conversations in a way that feels manageable, responsible, and human