Today, August 26, 2022, marks one year since the community of Wheatley was stunned by a gas explosion in the downtown core.
Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff and Council released a statement to pay tribute to the Wheatley community.
“As we continue efforts to address the situation, council would like to pay tribute to the citizens of Wheatley who have endured a year of uncertainty while a team of professionals worked to determine the cause of the explosion,” Mayor Canniff said in a statement.
“During this time the citizens of Wheatley have worked tirelessly to advocate, collaborate and work with municipal and provincial officials to resolve issues. Between volunteers and organized citizen groups, together members of the community have been unrelenting in their commitment to the downtown core of Wheatley and envisioning what the future could hold.”
Mayor Canniff added: “While there is still work to be done, on behalf of council, we remain committed to helping the community of Wheatley as it moves forward to renewed vibrancy. We appreciate the support and passion from the citizens and business owners of Wheatley. #Wheatley Strong.”
Meanwhile, work continues on the site.
In an update issued on Thursday, August 25, 2022, Municipal officials said the coring of the conductor pipe on the APEC 1 well in Wheatley will be completed by mid-next week.
Once that is completed, work crews will undertake geophysical tests to ensure the site is ready for the next phase of plugging the well with cement, Municipal officials added.
There has been no gas emission at the site since July 6.
If at any time residents detect the smell of gas, they are asked to immediately call 9-1-1.
