David Holle
| Specially for the Herald-Tribune
I assume most readers have been checking out ChatGPT in the last two months. If not, you should, because it’s a clear glimpse into the future of technological intelligence. It’s an AI chatbot that developer OpenAI describes as conversational, with a “conversational format that allows ChatGPT to answer follow-up questions, admit its mistakes, challenge false premises, and reject inappropriate requests.”
This column contains two questions I asked ChatGPT and the answers it gave.
Houle: In the style of futurist David Houle, please write about the next 10 years for Sarasota, Florida.
ChatGPT: As a futurist, I believe the next decade in Sarasota, Florida will be marked by a marked shift toward sustainability and technological advancement. The city is poised to become a green energy hub, with a focus on solar and wind power and a strong push towards energy efficiency in both residential and commercial properties.
Additionally, we will see continued growth in the tech industry as startups and established companies alike seek to capitalize on the city’s thriving innovation ecosystem. This will bring a wealth of job opportunities and further diversify the local economy, making it less dependent on traditional industries such as tourism and agriculture.
Sarasota is also becoming a leading destination for the “silver economy” – people over 65 – as retirees flock to the city for the warm weather, cultural amenities and world-class healthcare facilities. This demographic shift will have a major impact on the city’s infrastructure as public transport and accessibility become more important.
Finally, the city’s waterfront and coastal areas will continue to be a major draw, with ongoing efforts to protect and enhance these valuable resources. The development of new parks, pathways and public spaces will continue to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
In summary, the next decade holds a bright future for Sarasota, Florida as the city embraces sustainable and technological innovation, attracts a growing population, and enhances its natural resources.
Houle: Okay, all good, but that’s more optimistic than I might have been answering that question.
Now for the biggest problem Sarasota has.
What does the city of Sarasota, Florida need to do in the next 10 years to solve the affordable housing problem? Please write in the style of the futurist David Houle
ChatGPT: As a futurist, solving the problem of affordable housing in Sarasota, Florida over the next decade will require a multifaceted approach that leverages technology, policy, and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
A key solution will be exploring innovative housing models such as modular construction and shared flats that can reduce costs while providing high-quality, sustainable housing. To do this, the city must work closely with developers, architects and contractors to create new building codes and standards that encourage the use of these innovative techniques.
In addition, Sarasota must also consider ways to incentivize affordable housing development by offering property developers tax breaks and other financial incentives. This requires commitment from both city government and the private sector, as well as working closely with community organizations to ensure the benefits of these incentives reach those who need them most.
Finally, the city must also work to improve existing affordable housing, such as g. rental housing, by enacting policies that prevent gentrification and rising property values from forcing low-income residents out of their homes. This involves careful planning and zoning, and partnerships with community organizations and advocacy groups to ensure the voices of vulnerable populations are heard.
In summary, solving Sarasota, Florida’s affordable housing crisis over the next decade requires a comprehensive, forward-looking approach that leverages technology, policy and collaboration. By working together, the city can create a fairer and more sustainable future for all of its residents.
NOTE TO READERS: In this section of the Herald-Tribune, I write forward-looking columns through a local filter. Last fall, I launched a newsletter that covers many topics not covered here. You can sign up at evolutionshift.substack.com
David Houle from Sarasota is a world-renowned futurist. He has spoken on six continents, written 13 books, and is Futurist in Residence at Ringling College of Art and Design. His websites are davidhoule.com and the2020sdecade.com. Email him at [email protected]
