From the Desk of Mayor David West
August E-Newsletter 2025
Dear Neighbours,
I hope you are enjoying your summer! As we enjoy the peak of the heat, this month’s enews has a theme to match the weather – whether you are looking to beat the heat, jump in and enjoy it, prepare for extreme weather, or talk to your family about our changing weather, read on for some ideas.
This month, my Community Safety article is focused on emergency preparedness tips from York Regional Police and York Region as we face more extreme weather.
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 Emergency Preparedness. With storms intensifying resulting in more serious outcomes, there are steps you can take to be well prepared in the event of an emergency situation.
When storms hit, often the biggest impact is to our power grid. In Richmond Hill, the electricity provider is Alectra.
Remember, if you lose power, the first call should be to your local power company, and not to the police. Police will only respond if the power outage causes a dangerous situation for the public, as in the case of malfunctioning traffic lights, or downed power lines.
Important Information to keep handy:
Call 9-1-1 if you need immediate help from fire, police or ambulance services. For all other matters or for more information, you can call the following non-emergency numbers:
Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services Non-Emergency number: 905-883-5444
York Regional Police Non-Emergency number: 905-773-1221 or 1 (866) 876-5423
Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital at 905-883-1212
Report a power outage online or call 1-833-253-2872 (Option 1)
Richmond Hill municipal staff at 905-771-8800
For more information about Emergency Preparedness:
- Learn about Richmond Hill’s emergency preparedness public education programs
- Review York Region’s Emergency Preparedness Guide
- Visit the Emergency Management Ontario website
- Visit GetPrepared.ca
Natural disasters
Be it an ice storm, tornado or lightning strike, natural disasters can escalate in a matter of minutes. Know what to do in each scenario by reviewing the York Region emergency preparedness guidelines.
York Region also encourages all residents to take steps that will support both your household and our community with general self sufficiency tools like:
- the 72 hr kit, containing everything you need to be self-sufficient during an emergency such as clean water and food for your family and and don’t forget to plan for your pets too!
- making an emergency kit with things like copies of important documents, flashlights, battery or crank operated radio, a whistle …. You can download a sample check list here to get started
And Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency recommends that every household have an evacuation plan that includes a safe meeting place that the whole family is aware of.
York Regional Police News and Updates
It is a pleasure to recognize the official swearing in of Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan this month. I was happy to extend a letter of greeting and congratulations to him on this important occasion wishing him continued success and reaffirming my commitment to building a collaborative working relationship focused on the safety and wellbeing of Richmond Hill residents.
News Worth Repeating…
Once again, I would like to highlight the year to date statistics for 2025 that York Regional Police (YRP) has shared. This downward trend is exactly the kind of result we wanted when we voted to increase the YRP budget last year. I’m glad to see such quick results:
- 49% reduction in carjackings
- 37% reduction in vehicle thefts
- 67% reduction in homicides
- 25% reduction in hate crimes and
- an 11% decline in residential and commercial break-ins.
News from the
Office of the Mayor
This summer, Richmond Hill has welcomed Provincial dignitaries with several funding announcements that will support residents and their health care. First there was the June announcement that the non-profit Schoeder Ambulatory Centre will receive $14 million from the province and will provide MRIs, CT scans and endoscopy procedures to 115,000 patients over two years.
The second health care announcement came from Mackenzie Health in July – a new 20-bed adult inpatient mental health unit at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital is fully open. This will significantly expand capacity to care for individuals experiencing acute mental health challenges in Richmond Hill.
Finally, just last week the Catholic Community Services of York Region received almost $400,000 in funding towards important autism programs for newcomer families.
These investments help to ensure that residents are more able to access the services when and where they need them. I am happy to see the Provincial government making essential investments in Richmond Hill
Local media platforms are so vital. The local element is why I have always appreciated the broadcasts from 105.9 The Region and I will never forget the pivotal role they played during the ice storm of 2022 when they shared critical announcements, alerts, and information with residents.
As you may know, 105.9 The Region is facing some changes. The Y Media Group launched Y FM 105.9, a 24/7 York Region focused radio station, on July 1 and although the details are evolving, the resulting broadcasts promise to be focused on local news and events with a focus on representing the multicultural community we enjoy in York Region.
It was a privilege to attend the official Decommissioned Ambulance Donation event and acknowledge the good work of Richmond Hill based Global Care Outreach Program, led by Dr. Doobay. Working from the Vishnu Mandir on Yonge Street, this heartfelt initiative of the Voice of the Vedas Cultural Sabha Inc. has been dedicated to providing life-changing support to those in need.
In York Region, ambulances are decommissioned from the fleet after 5 years of 250,000 km. they are well maintained vehicles, many can start a new journey for those in need. I was happy to vote in favour of this donation at York Region Council. In total 15 ambulances have been donated to non-profit organizations since 2014.
Many dignitaries and community members gathered to celebrate this donation and acknowledge the tremendous, lifesaving impact it will have.
Mrs. Bibi Ali, mother of the President of Guyana, His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali said it well: “Seeing the Guyanese flag and the One Guyana logo on this ambulance touched my heart. This vehicle reminds us that even though we are separated by borders, we are united by our common humanity. This is not just a vehicle. It is a symbol of unity, compassion and care.”
Representing Richmond Hill
In June, I tabled a Member Motion to address the ongoing demand for pickleball court access in Richmond Hill. This was a creative measure, intended to maximize the space we have readily available by using existing arenas while the ice was removed. I remain committed to all residents and the many different recreational activities that we are fortunate to have access to in Richmond Hill. Learn more: RichmondHill.ca/Pickleball
As we prepare to attend the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference later this month, I continue to work collaboratively with OBCM to ensure Richmond Hill voices are represented in Provincial Minister meetings on key topics, including housing, mental health and homelessness, public safety, and the municipal funding model.
On July 5, I was honoured to be invited to Winnipeg to represent Richmond Hill at the marking of 2000 days since the tragic, cruel, and ruthless downing of Flight PS752 by the Iranian Government over Tehran. Winnipeg is the first to unveil a beautiful tribute to the lives lost in this terrible incident.
Richmond Hill and the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims have worked together to design a memorial that will be constructed in Unity Park to memorialize the more than 40 victims of the disaster that called Richmond Hill home. It will be a place for those directly impacted and all of the community to gather and remember the Richmond Hill residents killed, including family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues
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.
City of Richmond Hill News
The Summer Events Continue
Feeling the Heat?
- Cool off in one of the 15 splash pads in Richmond Hill parks, open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week.
- Community centre pools are available for drop in swims, check the schedule to find the time that works for you
- If you want a break from the heat without the water, the Richmond HIll Public Library has indoor, air conditioned engaging programs for all ages.
- And if you want to embrace the summer weather, Richmond Hill outdoor concerts continue all month, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
- Starting August 18th, you can enjoy Moonlight Movies at dusk.
- Now there are more opportunities than ever to enjoy some court time in Richmond Hill.
- Enjoying our extensive 162 km of trails is a fantastic way to explore the city on bike or foot.
- Maybe one of your hikes will take you to the Oak Ridges Kettle Lakes – check out the recent media coverage of my Member Motion calling on the Provincial government to actively plan for this sensitive ecological area.
- there is so much to do in outdoors in Richmond Hill.
Make the most of your summer without leaving the City!
Moments in Sport Contest – Submissions open ’til August 4th
Do you remember that one moment when you realized the importance of sport in your life?
Sport has shaped some of the greatest memories in our lives, whether as an active participate or as a spectator cheering on the sidelines, and now the City of Richmond Hill is giving you the chance to capture that memory and WIN a Sports Hall of Fame Prize Pack, a $100 gift card and have your moment immortalized in the Richmond Hill Sports Hall of Fame.
But don’t delay! The contest closes on Monday August 4th, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
Share your thoughts: East Beaver Creek Secondary Plan
City staff will be hosting both a virtual and an in-person workshop to hear your ideas about the plans for East Beaver Creek and Hwy 7 area.
Virtual Community Workshop Option: Monday, August 18, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Zoom
In-Person Community Workshop Option: Wednesday, August 20, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Richmond Hill Municipal Offices 225 East Beaver Creek Rd (Floor 1, Committee Rooms 1 and 2)
Register today for the section of your choice.
Your participation will inform the development of the East Beaver Creek Secondary Plan, which includes policies on land use, height, density, transportation network, parks and more. At the workshop, they will share ideas on the potential design concepts. There will be:
• a presentation on the development of the plan;
• discussion on the vision and guiding principles for the area; and
• discussion on the draft land-use and design options.
Your feedback helps us to develop draft policies to define and grow our city.
Community Events and News
Do you have books that are ready for a new shelf? Donate them and make room for all the new reads you can pick up at the 4th Annual Richmond Hill Book Event.
Accepted donations include:
- paperback and hardcover books in good condition
- CDs in good repair
- textbooks and magazines are not accepted
Drop off your books and CDs at Richmond Hill United Church (back door) on August 14th 10:30am to 12:00pm or by special arrangement – contact the organizers directly.
All proceeds will be donated to the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank and Richmond Hill United Church
Children, Youth and Climate - How to talk to kids about global warming
We all have a role to play in reducing our emissions and becoming resilient!
Join the movement!
Our youth are exposed to climate change in lived experience, school, and the daily news. Studies show they are anxious about the future and often eager to be part of the solution.
AGE-APPROPRIATE RESPONSES
Before age 9 – Let them talk about fears but avoid scary details.
Help them appreciate nature and show them ecosystems at work around them
Engage them in environmental care, including climate care – like walking to school and caring for trees.
After age 8 – Be honest about the seriousness of the situation – they will see the climate changing and be exposed to concepts in science and social studies. Let them know that adults are aware and working on solutions – both locally and globally.
Show them their role in slowing warming.
Develop a family plan based on local targets (p.24)
More information: Canadian Research
We all have a role to play in reducing our emissions and becoming resilient!
Join the movement!
Beat the Heat: Staying Safe During Summer Scorchers
As temperatures soar, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and safety. Here are some key tips to keep cool and avoid heat-related illnesses:
· Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
· Seek shade: Limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
· Dress smart: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
· Cool down: Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces or use cool compresses.
· Check on others: Regularly visit elderly neighbors and those with health conditions.
Be aware of heat exhaustion symptoms: heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. If you experience these, move to a cool place immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Remember, never leave children or pets in parked vehicles, even for a short time. Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy your summer responsibly! For more information visit: RichmondHill.ca/EmergencyPreparedness
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:
- August 1 Emancipation Day
- August 15 National Acadian Day
- Third week of August Public Service Pride Week
Provincial Dates:
Thank you for your ongoing engagement as we cultivate an inclusive community.
York Region Curbside Giveway
Saturday August 23th, 2025. 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Richmond Hill July Events
Here are a few of the events I was privileged to participate in lately, on behalf of the City of Richmond Hill
July was all about showcasing and supporting local businesses in Richmond Hill through the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. Let's keep the momentum going all year long!
Meeting with Toronto Region Real Estate Board and exchanging ideas on how to improve the housing crisis specifically in 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