Penhold is being considered for a starring role in a documentary series about how taxpayers could manage if their rates were cut.
Force Four Entertainment, a production company based out of B.C., is looking at communities across Canada to find one for their show
Nicole Lawson, director of development with Force Four, said they're looking for a dynamic and adventurous community.
“Penhold's in the running,” she said, adding it's one of a handful they're looking at seriously.
A Facebook page called Penhold Project has been set up to gauge residents' interest in participating. A write-up from Force Four estimates the average household spends about 40 per cent of their income on taxes.
Lawson said the show challenges participants to show how they'd spend that tax money if they had it back.
“What are you going to do with it?” she asked. “What are you willing to sacrifice?”
She said Penhold came to their attention while researching because of the property tax controversy that occurred over the summer. She said they reached out to residents and town council, but added for Penhold to stay in the running more feedback is needed.
“We have heard from a few great people but we need to hear from many more,” she said.
The show will offer the chance to earn some reward money as well.
“It's supposed to be fun,” she said.
Mayor Dennis Cooper said if Penhold's picked, it could bring about some positive community participation.
“This might be a chance to get a community engaged in the process of decision making of how tax dollars (are spent),” he said.
“Council is approaching this with an open mind,” he said. “If picked I think we've got some lively people.”
He noted Penhold hasn't been selected yet, adding Lacombe is also being considered.
Lawson said the selection process is ongoing but they're hoping to have a three-community short list to check out in December.
Lawson said if people are interested in participating or if they'd like more information, to check the Penhold Project Facebook page or email [email protected].
