(File photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Cam Lee

New EDO in Tisdale

McShannock named new EDO in Tisdale

Dec 13, 2019 | 12:14 PM

The town of Tisdale has hired a new economic development officer.

Long-time local business owner Greg McShannock was selected as the successful candidate.

The co-owner of the Dairy Queen in Tisdale told northeastNOW he was drawn to the position through being in business in the community for a number of years.

“We brought some new business in the past, the Dairy Queen five years ago…into town as well, sparked my fire to look into this for sure as a position,” said McShannock.

Being from the area is an advantage, according to McShannock. He was an owning partner in John Bob Farm Equipment for over 30 years before selling to Rocky Mountain Equipment last year. McShannock said he has seen changes in the area and the economy over the years.

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“I’ve found it’s important to understand the history of how this is all happening, and got us to where we are to hopefully head down the right path moving forward,” said McShannock.

Like many communities in the northeast, many of Tisdale’s businesses rely directly, or indirectly, on agriculture. McShannock said the solid ag base in Tisdale makes it an attractive place to do business.

McShannock highlighted the local grain terminals as a big draw. He said Tisdale also has Farm Credit Canada, many of the banks, both Canadian National and Canadian Pacific railways, and the town also has some land that is available.

While the role of an economic development officer is often to bring new businesses to a community, McShannock said it’s also important to focus on the existing businesses as well.

“It’s important I think going into this position as well…to make sure that I’m here to support the local businesses that have supported the community for so many years, and not just to get caught up in looking for that new shiny business to bring in,” said McShannock. “I think it definitely has to fit the core and the feel in the current businesses that we have to really make a go of it in town.”

The position had been vacant since Sean Wallace left in March.

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cam.lee@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @camlee1974