The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is pleased to announce the appointment of John Henricks as Interim Director of Planning, Building and Development Services, effective November 19, 2025.
With the recent announcement of the current Director’s, Kirsten McCauley, resignation, the Town has begun the recruitment process to fill the role permanently. In the interim, John will provide leadership and expert support to Staff while ensuring continuity on several high-profile and ongoing development projects.
“We are grateful for the contributions of Director McCauley, whose work has helped strengthen the Town’s planning and development framework,” stated Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. “Her efforts have set a solid foundation for the important work ahead. We are pleased to have John return to the Town in the interim, bringing extensive experience and a strong understanding of our community to support Staff and maintain momentum during this period of transition.”
A local professional with deep roots in the community, John brings 44 years of experience as a registered professional planner. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo and is a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners. Throughout his career, he has served on numerous planning-related committees and contributed to a wide range of municipal and private-sector initiatives.
John is also well-known to the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, having previously served from 2012 to 2016 as the Director of Community and Development Services. In that role, he oversaw planning, building and by-law enforcement functions and provided planning advice to Council. His return brings valuable familiarity with the Town’s planning environment, community needs, and local development considerations.
More recently, as the previous Owner and President of NPG Planning Solutions Inc., John led diverse planning assignments involving infill, brownfield, greenfield, rural, and tourism-related projects. He also provided expert testimony on land-use and urban design matters, reinforcing the extent of his expertise.
“The Town is fortunate to have someone with such extensive experience and strong connections to our community step into this interim role,” said CAO Nick Ruller. “We look forward to John’s guidance as we work through the recruitment process.”
John will support the Planning, Building and Development Services Department on a contract basis during this transitional period until a permanent Director position is filled.
“It is a special honour to serve the community in this way. While I was enjoying my recent retirement, I look forward to supporting the Town during this transition period and working alongside the talented staff in the Planning and Building Department,” said incoming Interim Director of Planning, Building and Development Services John Henricks. “Niagara-on-the-Lake is a highly engaged community, and I am committed to helping ensure the team continues to be supported as we navigate this important work together.”
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Media contact:
Marah Minor, Corporate Communications Lead
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com