Statement from Mayor David West- Lowering all flags across the city
On behalf of the City of Richmond Hill and Members of Council, I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the recent tragedies in our community. The devastating fire on Skywood Drive that claimed the lives of two young women, and the unimaginable car crash at First Roots Daycare that took the life of a child and injured others, have individually and especially collectively left families and our community heartbroken.
In honour of the victims and in solidarity with those grieving, I have directed that all city flags be lowered to half-mast.
While these tragedies were unforeseeable, I have spoken directly with the Minister of Education, Paul Calandra and the Minister of Children, Youth and Social Services, Michael Parsa, both of whom expressed their deep support. In my conversation with Minister Calandra he has assured me that he will immediately improve safety measures around Daycares so that we can do everything possible to prevent such heartbreak from ever happening again.
In the days ahead, I will be meeting with victims and their families to offer support, and I encourage all members of our community to do the same in any way they can.
Richmond Hill is a compassionate, caring, and resilient city, and together we will find strength and healing as we look toward brighter days ahead.
Sincerely,
Mayor David West
City of Richmond Hill
2025 State of the City Address
October 27, 2025
Tickets and information
Community Safety
I want Richmond Hill residents to know that I hear your concerns about safety in our city. As your Mayor, I am listening and working to do all I can to ensure our city is a safe one.
This is a new, regular column that I am adding to my monthly e-newsletter to share information with Richmond Hill residents. I will offer insights from my close working relationship with the York Region Police District 2. ‘Community Safety’ is very broad, so I will focus on one topic each month.
Visit my YouTube page for my latest video on the topic of community safety.
As Mayor of Richmond Hill, I am honoured to serve the residents of this great city.
Working together with my City Council colleagues, City staff, residents, community groups, businesses, and officials from other levels of government, I am determined to always listen, and advocate for the best interests of Richmond Hill.
Ever since I volunteered on a community committee over 18 years ago, I have been actively engaged in working to support this vibrant and inclusive city. As Ward 4 Councillor for 8+ years, I developed a solid reputation as someone who works collaboratively across diverse groups. I am committed to bringing that balanced and practical perspective to the role of Mayor.
