The municipality of Chatham-Kent has signed an agreement with Ontario’s Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry to take the lead in the investigation of a gas explosion that took place in downtown Wheatley August 26th.
The agreement outlines the ministry’s commitment to identify the source of the hydrogen sulphide gas believe to be the cause and to recommend ways to prevent future gas leaks.
Chatham-Kent CAO Don Shropshire said the agreement moves the investigation to the next level.
“We have been preparing the site for further investigation while focusing on public safety,” he says. “The safety of our residents remains key for our first responders and the province will be taking the lead on its portion of the work.”
Shropshire says the municipality would be meeting with the province and its experts to provide a timeline for residents as soon as possible.
Mayor Darrin Canniff is pleased that the investigation is moving forward.
“We are encouraging the province to expedite the investigation process and to determine what can be done financially to help the residents and businesses that have been effected. I’m confident the premier and cabinet is giving the matter strong consideration.”
In the meantime, outreach services are still available for displaced Wheatley residents, although case managers have moved from the arena to the Wheatley Village Resource Centre and Food Bank on Talbot Street East.