From the Desk of Mayor David West
July E-Newsletter 2025
Dear Neighbours,
Summer is here and Richmond Hill has so much happening. Whether you are looking for a lazy day in the park with a good book, or a place to cool off and be entertained, the Richmond Hill Events calendar, Parks and Rec spaces and Richmond Hill Public Library have a full schedule for you to enjoy.
This month, my Community Safety article is focused on safety in and around our homes with tips from York Regional Police.
Read on for highlights from the Ontario Big City Mayor’s June meeting, which I attend on behalf of Richmond Hill, and community group updates.
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Mayor David West
City of Richmond Hill
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.
This month, I am focusing on Home Safety and Reducing Break Ins. We all have a role to play in fostering a safe community – there are concrete steps you can take to make your home less attractive to criminals.
The York Regional Police (YRP) just shared year to date 2025 crime statistics this week and the numbers are encouraging with reductions in the following crimes reported: carjackings (49% reduction), vehicle thefts (down 37%), homicides (67% fewer), hate crimes (25% drop), and an 11% decline in residential and commercial break-ins.
This graphic shows….
The last 30 days of break and enters reported in Richmond Hill, both for residential and commercial buildings. As you can see, there have been 11 residential break and enters, and 5 commercial ones. Using the YRP Community Safety Portal, you can see a lot of robust information like this and ‘knowledge is power’ – the more we know about the crime in our community, the better equipped we are to tackle it.
So, what can we as residents do to help deter criminals? Following these 6 tips is a great starting point.
YRP offers this quick video with additional safety suggestions.
Summer is a time when many people travel. If your summer travel plans mean your home is unattended for days or weeks at a time, consider these precautions:
- Put lights on timers to give the impression someone is home.
- Tell a trusted neighbour your vacation plans and provide emergency contact numbers.
- Do not post comments on social media sites telling people you’re out of town and wait until you get home to share photos.
- Ask a neighbour to park in your driveway.
- Have someone mow your lawn.
- Keep blinds and shades at their normal position.
Increase your security in apartment/condominium buildings
- Do not permit someone you don’t know enter the building.
- Never leave an external door propped open.
- Put only your first initials on the directory.
- Get to know your neighbours.
- Use building facilities during active times.
- Report suspicious activity.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
Using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) small changes to the exterior of your property can make a big reduction in the risk to your home or business. Consider these tips:
Does your neighbourhood have a "Neighbourhood Watch" Program?
The concept behind Neigbourhood Watch is simple: Neighbours looking out for each other to help prevent crime and keep communities safe, supported by local police.
York Regional Police can assist you in starting a Neighbourhood Watch Program in your area. Learn more and join today.
News from the
Office of the Mayor
I was happy to host the second event in the Sustainability Speakers Series on the topic of Local Food. If you missed the talk, you can view the recording on my YouTube page: @MayorDavidWest
As always, the interest and engagement from our knowledgeable residents was evident – thank you to everyone who submitted a question or attended in person. Thanks also to Heather Auld for this fantastic summary of the evening.
On June 18, Council unanimously passed a Staff Report “Local Food and Urban Agriculture in Richmond Hill” (Report Number: SRPBS.25.051) which shared information about the City’s local food and urban agriculture initiatives and recommended Council endorsement of the York Region Food Charter Action Document.
Actions like this demonstrate the continued commitment of this Council to growing Richmond Hill in a balanced and thoughtful way, understanding the different priorities that must be met in a rapidly evolving urban space.
Representing Richmond Hill
In June, I attended the Ontario Big City Mayors (OBCM) meeting in Brampton, sharing the voice of Richmond Hill on topics of importance to residents, including housing shortages, infrastructure funding, economic development, and rising costs, highlighting the need for significant investments in municipal infrastructure and local housing.
At the meeting, the OBCM Caucus supported the Province’s response to tariffs and its ambitious economic agenda; proposed significant investments in municipal infrastructure and local housing as a stimulus. The membership remained concerned with the absence of a commitment to restart the property tax assessment cycle, advocating for a fair and equitable property tax system.
The OBCM Caucus represent cities with populations of 100,000 or more, which includes nearly 70% of people living in Ontario. OBCM provides a voice for big city mayors and works closely with the federal and provincial governments, as well as partnering with municipal organizations such as the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
In February of 2025 I was elected to join the Executive Committee of the OBCM.
Some of the important work of OBCM includes advocating for the priorities of large cities like Richmond Hill and sharing information and resources among members and with other governments, stakeholders and organizations. OBCM also takes public positions on key issues that affect big cities.
As we prepare to attend the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference in August, OBCM has been active in requesting meetings with respective Ministers to discuss municipal priorities, including housing, mental health and homelessness, public safety, and the municipal funding model so we can maximize the opportunity for face to face conversations.
News from Council
One of my priorities this term of council was to make Council meetings civil and welcoming to Richmond Hill residents. It is important to me that everyone in Richmond Hill feels able to attend these meetings which shape our city. You can visit the City of Richmond Hill website and select “Council, Council Calendar” to get to the search page shown here and learn about what your elected official are discussing.
After the July 9 Council Meeting, Richmond Hill Council will pause meetings for a summer break, as is the practice of Municipal, Provincial, and Federal Councils and the regular meeting schedule will resume on September 3rd.
Please remember that you can attend Committee of the Whole meetings and Council Public Meetings in person at City Hall Council Chambers, watch live from home, or watch the recordings of any meetings you missed at the link below.
Thank you for your civic engagement.
One of my priorities this term of council was to make Council meetings civil and welcoming to Richmond Hill residents. It is important to me that everyone in Richmond Hill feels able to attend these meetings which shape our city. You can visit the City of Richmond Hill website and select “Council, Council Calendar” to get to the search page shown here and learn about what your elected official are discussing.
Please remember that you can attend Committee of the Whole meetings and Council Public Meetings in person at City Hall Council Chambers, watch live from home, or watch the recordings of any meetings you missed at the link below.
Thank you for your civic engagement.
City of Richmond Hill News
Take a look at this summer fun line up...
Concerts in the Park – Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. at Mill Pond Park
Presented by Tim Hortons, the popular summer concert series returns with a fantastic lineup of tribute bands and live performances.
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy a perfect night out with friends and family. Parking is limited – extra spots are available at Mackenzie Health’s East Lot after 6 p.m. Or skip the hassle and walk or bike – there’s a bike valet this year! Check the full schedule online and plan your perfect weeknight escape.
Retro Ribfest – July 19-21 at Richmond Green
I can’t wait for this annual mouthwatering festival! Get ready for three days of award winning ribs and sides, fun contests, family activities and toe-tapping live retro tunes! Bring your appetite – and don’t forget to grab napkins! I’ll be there judging July 21 so make sure to say “hi”.
LIVE in the Plaza – Tuesday and Wednesday Nights
Presented by Wilson-Niblett, enjoy a mix of musical performances on Tuesday nights and showcase your talent during Open Mic Wednesdays in the outdoor plaza at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. Performances begin July 8.
Make the most of your summer without leaving the City! The Richmond Hill summer event lineup continues through August. Find full schedules and event details at RichmondHill.ca/SummerSeries.
Richmond HIll Blooms – Nominations open ’til July 7th!
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate. Garden designs can be anything from a lush, green oasis to a vivid array of colours and scents to a pollinator’s paradise. All nominated properties will receive a recognition sign to proudly display in the front garden.
New this year, recognition signs include a ‘Winter Pollinator Habitat’ design on the back, which you can display at the end of the season to inspire others to leave their gardens for pollinators to nest and rest during the winter months.
FYI, the judging portion of the front garden recognition program has been discontinued. Instead, the program is going back to its roots and will focus on encouraging a higher level of participation across the community.
Community Events and News
Did you know that 25,000 households are experiencing food insecurity in York Region? The York Region Food Network connects our residents in need with good food in dignified and empowering ways. Learn more about this non-profit organization and their fantastic programs. From drop in meals, to classes in community kitchens and thriving community gardens, YRFN is working hard in our region.
Shining a Spotlight on the Arts in Richmond Hill...
2019, the Kindred Spirits Orchestra (KSO) has many ties to the Richmond Hill community including their concert programs presented at Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts and the Young Artist Mentorship (YAM) Program – a tuition free program for orchestral development of young musicians.
This summer KSO is inviting you to enjoy CARMEN – Open Air Opera Concert
Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 6 p.m.
Richmond Green Park Amphitheatre
Since its premiere in 1875 to an incredulous and scandalized audience, Bizet’s opera Carmen has since become one of the most popular and performed operas in the world. This production of Carmen brings the centuries-old European tradition of presenting outdoor performances during the summer months to the Richmond Green Park Amphitheater, a jewel of York region that offers an incomparable organic acoustical environment for this stellar cast with a full symphony orchestra and a choir, under the direction of Maestro Kristian Alexander.
For tickets and information visit KSOrchestra.ca
Free Online Tool Helps Residents Discover Home Heat Loss and Save Energy!
Find out how much energy your home is losing through its roof with this interactive map. Visit Richmond Hill’s Sustainable Energy page.
Tips on keeping your home cool without air-conditioning:
● Every ray of light that enters your home turns into heat – so covering your windows keeps that energy out.
● At night, the temperature often drops, so open your windows and get that cool air in overnight.
● Fans cool you by evaporating sweat from your skin and by moving hot air away from you. However, the fan motor also adds heat to your home – so use them sparingly.
● Long-term solution: Plant deciduous trees on the south-facing side of your home or building. Trees do more than shade your home, they consume light energy and turn it into wood and leaves (chemical energy).
Why deciduous trees?
All of these tips reverse for the winter – so you want trees that lose their leaves in the winter to let that warming sunlight into your home!
We all have a role to play in reducing our emissions and becoming resilient!
Join the movement!
As you embark on your summer adventures, don’t let fire safety take a backseat. Whether camping, staying in hotels, or booking an Airbnb, vigilance is key. Wherever you are staying, ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
For hotels and vacation rentals, choose accommodations with smoke alarms and fire sprinkler systems. Upon arrival, locate fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and familiarize yourself with evacuation plans.
When camping, adhere to local fire regulations, always use established fire rings, keep fires small, and fully extinguish them before leaving.
Remember, fire doesn’t take a vacation. By staying alert and prepared, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer getaway for you and your loved ones.
What's On in #myRichmondHill
The calendar of events in Richmond Hill continues to offer something for everyone.
Here are a few ideas to fill your free time. Please also visit the following calendars for local events:
Watch out for celebrations and memorials of the following Significant Provincial Heritage and Federal Dates:
- Canada Day – July 1
- Day of Commemoration of the Great Upheaval – July 28
Provincial Dates:
Thank you for your ongoing engagement as we cultivate an inclusive community.
I know I am more proud than ever before to call myself Canadian, and to be fortunate to live in this mosaic, rather than a melting pot!
York Region Curbside Giveway
Saturday July 26th, 2025. 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Richmond Hill June Events
Here are a few of the events I was privileged to participate in lately, on behalf of the City of Richmond Hill
and always, I am delighted to speak with Richmond Hill residents every chance I get - I am here for you and I am listening.
Important Numbers and Information
ACCESS Richmond Hill
905-771-8800
Ac****@**********ll.ca
City services, updates on damaged City property, snow clearing, streetlight maintenance
Animal Services
905-832-2281
Animal control and shelter services contracted through City of Vaughan
Alectra Utilities
1-833-253-2872
Hydro outage information, downed power lines
Inclement Weather Hotline
905-771-5487
City facility closures and recreation program cancellations
Parking Control
905-771-8860
Cars parked illegally on the street
York Region Roads
1-877-464-9675 ext 75200
Snow removal on regional roads
York Region Transit/Viva
905-762-2100
Snow removal at bus stops
