The city of Jacareí, Brazil, has launched an innovative virtual assistant named 'Jaque' accessible through WhatsApp. This tool aims to streamline communication between the municipal government and residents, providing easy access to various services without the need for in-person visits. The assistant can handle over 70 different tax-related services, including the issuance of payment guides for property tax (IPTU) and solid waste collection fees, thus catering to the needs of the citizens in a more efficient manner.

In a statement, the city’s Secretary of Finance, Guilherme Seixas Mendonça, emphasized the importance of such digital tools in enhancing the user experience for residents. By enabling citizens to engage through multiple official channels, the initiative seeks to improve safety, convenience, and efficiency in service delivery, which helps to reduce waiting times and bureaucratic hurdles often associated with governmental processes. The virtual assistant's deployment reflects a growing trend towards digital transformation in municipal governance.

With 'Jaque', residents are encouraged to utilize this technological advancement to manage their municipal responsibilities effectively from the comfort of their homes. The initiative not only represents a step forward in public service but also highlights the city's commitment to leveraging technology for better governance and community engagement.