Second brainstorming session held for downtown Wheatley revitalization

Concerned citizens were in abundance at Wheatley’s Village Resource Centre as Chatham-Kent Economic Development Services hosted another ideas session related to a revamp of Wheatley’s core area. 

Wheatley Economic Development Officer Kyra Knapp led the August 17 morning session that attempted to bring in innovative ideas that encompass the community’s ideals of inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability for the rebuild. 

Members of the Wheatley Task Force sat with the citizens divided up into small groups, noting the wishes of the community that will be passed on to an urban planner that will be hired to formalize the 2025 Community Action Plan as the revitalization moves forward.

Three Wheatley citizens in attendance at the planning event eagerly shared their proposed visions with the Southpoint Sun. 

Twenty-six year resident Bob Toews shared an idea that both he and his daughter had. 

“We could put up walls in the explosion area that feature murals of the businesses that were lost along with descriptions of each,” he said. Toews would also like to see gardens placed along the walls that would memorialize the sacrifices made by our Canadian war veterans.

Wheatley small business owner Katelyn Wullms envisions a rebuild that invites visitors in, along with amenities and businesses that will keep them here for an entire afternoon.

“We need something for families with young children, some green spaces, and different experiences for those families to enjoy,” said Wullms.

Having moved to Wheatley just two years ago, Mary Jonsson is excited to be part of the process that will change the blank canvas that blankets the empty downtown lots. 

Jonsson, the vice president of Wheatley’s Horticultural Society commented, “We have a chance to create a collective gathering space that is beautiful, useful and easy to maintain.”

For those unable to provide their input in person and still wishing to provide their ideas may do so by visiting Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent, Wheatley Updates on the municipality website.