There's a growing sense of hope in the community of Wheatley with the arrival of its new ambassador.
Despite being in the role for just a week, Kyra Knapp is making waves with plans to lead the community toward its revitalization.
"The people in the community are really special," said Knapp. "I'm excited to see the smiles on people's faces because right now I am seeing so much hope in people's eyes and that's encouraging. [It] puts that fire under my butt to do an exceptional job."
With a budget of $450,000 and a two-year timeline, Knapp will focus on project management with the Wheatley task force, including efforts that the municipality and province agree foster economic growth and retain and expand local businesses.
Some priorities include mitigating risk, encouraging business opportunities, and developing a long-term vision for Wheatley.
"We're in a hybrid stage of mitigating risk," said Knapp. "[We're] still evaluating and monitoring the gas situation. We just acquired some properties [within the evacuation zone] and those will be coming down so we can explore what's underneath them to make sure there's no future risk."
Knapp said the municipality will also be looking at emergency preparedness and ensuring residents are prepared in the event of a future emergency, such as a natural disaster or crisis.
"I think it's important as we look to a future, [to consider] how we do this in a way that is safe and keeps the community safe," said Knapp. "That is paramount to us and everyone that has been on site."
Community consultations and meetings with businesses and municipal departments will likely take place near early summer.
Knapp said details are being worked out and more information about that will be made public once it's available.
"I'm lucky to be a part of this," said Knapp.
Knapp's expertise is in economic and community development highlighted by a "comprehensive approach to fostering regenerative economic practices."
She was named one of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario's (EDCO's) Top 10 Economic Development Professionals in 2021 as well as one of Business Elite's 2023 Top 40 Under 40 in Canada.
