A new economic developer has been hired to lead revitalization efforts in the town of Wheatley following a devastating gas explosion over two years ago.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has hired Kyra Knapp to lead the Wheatley Task Force as it moves forward with a two-year comprehensive recovery and development strategy.
The municipality said Knapp’s role will focus on project management for the task force, driving projects to foster economic growth, as well as supporting business retention and expansion. Knapp will act as an overall ambassador for Wheatley’s interests following the August 2021 gas explosion in the town’s downtown core that caused millions of dollars of damage and resulted in numerous injuries.
According to LinkedIn, Knapp’s previous experience includes serving as an economic development officer with Caldwell First Nation and as an economic strategist with Parry Sound Tourism. Knapp is also the CEO of KL Branding and Consulting.
“We felt that Kyra’s professional background and leadership attributes made her the ideal candidate to take on this important role,” said Wheatley Task Force Chair Howard Gabert in a news release. “We are confident that she will bring significant momentum to Wheatley’s recovery and help the community move forward in a progressive and positive way.”
Knapp’s position and the Wheatley Task Force have been fully funded by the Ontario government with a budget of $450,000.