Chris Johnson (Photo: Town of Blackfalds website)

By rdnewsNOW staff

excited to come to young, vibrant community

Blackfalds welcomes new Economic Development Officer

May 11, 2021 | 12:00 PM

The Town of Blackfalds is welcoming its new Economic Development Officer (EDO).

Christopher Johnson joins the Town after building a portfolio in economic development and tourism in his hometown of Oakville, Ontario, and Banff & Lake Louise Tourism.

“The Town of Blackfalds is a young and vibrant community suitable for the life of a growing family,” said Johnson.

“While current amenities are suitable, and recreational facilities are world-class based on the Town’s scale, there are abundant opportunities for growth and enrichment as an Economic Developer. Within the Town of Blackfalds, I have found a shared passion for the success of building a greater community.”

Chief Administrative Officer Myron Thompson said that the Town of Blackfalds is fortunate to have Johnson’s expertise leading the Town’s economic development and tourism department.

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“Chris will work alongside other municipal departments, businesses, and the community to develop new and existing business ideas, mentor those ideas, and collaborate to further develop and expand the economy within the Town of Blackfalds,” he added.

Johnson’s plans for Blackfalds’ future include the creation of more capital and more labour, as well as supporting economic growth within the Town by local and non-local consumers.

He says he also recognizes the challenges of the present, specifically the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID-19 has left devastating impacts on business development and tourism. However, there have been some positive aspects that we can derive from this pandemic as well,” Johnson explained.

“Businesses have been forced to pivot and expand in the way that they provide products and services to their customers, ultimately setting them up for greater success post-pandemic. Consumers have adjusted how they receive products and services, even focusing more on local and small business providers as their first choice.

“While we have seen a huge decline in tourism and visitation numbers globally, in some cases COVID-19 has allowed more time to be spent with family rediscovering our backyards in a less crowded and distracting environment.”