Smart and intelligent city initiatives
Kelowna’s Intelligent City vision is about improving residents’ lives through better access to online services, technological innovation, and collaborative problem-solving. We’re evolving from a smart city to an intelligent one, focused on creating local solutions to local challenges.
Our community is full of talented individuals already working to make Kelowna better. We’re here to support and collaborate with them.
Collaborate with us
If you’re working on creative solutions to some of our shared challenges in the community (particularly those listed in the Council priorities 2023-2026), there may be an opportunity for us to work together!
Want to help shape the future of Kelowna's digital services? Sign up to share your feedback in our user research program and contribute to improving online experiences for all residents.
While being a smart city has allowed various City departments to improve efficiencies, reduce costs and improve departmental outcomes, we’re facing increasingly complex issues. Complex issues often require collaborative solutions… we can’t do it alone!
Partnerships between public, private, not-for-profits and academic institutions have the potential to develop local solutions to local issues by sharing knowledge, expertise, resources and costs.
The Intelligent City Strategy supports Kelowna’s Council and Corporate priorities by integrating technology, data, and collaboration into city operations and planning. It enhances public safety, housing, transportation, and environmental efforts through digital transformation and data-driven decision-making. By fostering partnerships and empowering staff and residents, the strategy drives innovation in areas like climate resilience, connectivity, and economic development. It also aligns with long-term community goals outlined in Imagine Kelowna and the Official Community Plan, ensuring a responsive and future-ready city.
We’re updating our Intelligent City Strategy to reflect how far we’ve come—and where we’re headed next. Since launching the strategy, Kelowna has made significant strides in digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative innovation. From enhancing public safety and housing solutions to expanding connectivity and supporting local businesses, our accomplishments are shaping a smarter, more resilient city. As technology and community needs evolve, so does our approach. We’re refining our focus, strengthening partnerships, and preparing to share a refreshed strategy that builds on our successes and responds to new opportunities. Stay tuned for the next chapter in Kelowna’s journey as an Intelligent City.
These are just a few of the things that we’re currently working on:
City online service – our growing suite of web and voice-based chatbots helps residents, businesses, and visitors quickly and efficiently access the information they need—anytime, anywhere.
Web-based chatbots
- Citybot – Originally launched in December 2020 to answer COVID-19 questions, Citybot now supports a wide range of topics including property taxes, utility billing, recreation, Glenmore Landfill, and seasonal snow updates. It’s accessible from the chat icon on any page across kelowna.ca.
- Kelowna International Airport Bot (Link) – Launched in October 2020, Link provides real-time flight updates, parking info, and curbside assistance. Try it at ylw.kelowna.ca.
- Building Permit Chatbots – These bots guide users through the permit process for various development types.
- Fast Track Infill Housing Bot – Helps users determine property eligibility and explore design options.
- Topic-Specific Bots – Dedicated bots are available for property taxes, recreation, and Glenmore Landfill.
Voice bots
- Snow Bot – Available seasonally at 250-469-8600 (Option 7), this bot provides updates on snow plowing schedules and road conditions.
- Revenue Afterhours Bot – Handles property tax, utility billing, and cashier-related inquiries. Call 250-469-8757.
- Landfill Bot (Oscar) – Answers questions about waste disposal and landfill services. Reach Oscar at 250-469-8880.
- Recreation Bot – Available at 250-469-8800 for program and facility information.
- Bylaw Services Afterhours Bot – Supports after-hours inquiries at 250-469-8686.
Awards recognition
- IABC Gold Quill Award – Strategic Artificial Intelligence category.
- MSDO Excellence in Innovation Award – For Building Permit Chatbots.
- MISA BC Spirit of Innovation Award - Service & efficiency with AI chatbots.
City services, involving internal & external stakeholders – review and redevelopment of our online services using user-centred design thinking and processes. Projects include:
- Redeveloping our service request system
- Creating a centralized, convenient and accessible way to have questions answered, access services, report issues or provide feedback, and connect with City staff using various channels, such as phone or web
- Providing more online options for building permit applications
Based on deep understanding of our user groups, we find ways to improve the service through co-creation, iterative development and ongoing feedback.
