From the Desk of Mayor David West
October E-Newsletter 2025
Dear Neighbours,
September hasn’t been an easy month for Richmond Hill residents – there is a weight of grief in the air that is tangible and I believe we are all carrying those directly impacted by recent tragedies in our hearts. To the families and loved ones of the victims of the house fire that claimed two young lives and the young victim of the daycare accident which also injured other students and staff, we extend our deepest condolences.
As a community, I think our ability to support one another is incredible. The outpouring of love and care for all those who have been impacted by these tragedies in Richmond Hill shows we have compassion for our fellow residents.
This month, Richmond Hill has also shown resilience – as we continued to foster new businesses and ventures and we continue to welcome and celebrate many different diverse celebrations, I believe these events help to unite us.
Thank you – you have shown that we face the good times and the hard times together – let’s always be a true ‘city of neighbours’ and support each other.
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Mayor David West
City of Richmond Hill
Community Safety
Auto Guard 3.0: Enlisting your help in the fight against vehicle theft
After a successful first two years, York Regional Police (YRP) will kick-off Operation Auto Guard 3.0 in Fall 2025. Community safety is a shared responsibility, and YRP will need the help of Richmond Hill residents in the fight against auto theft. That’s why Operation Auto Guard 3.0 will continue to employ a two-pronged approach: Crime prevention education and strategic enforcement. YRP will continue to focus on expanding our reach by delivering crime prevention messaging in several languages popular in areas frequented by car thieves.Safety on our Streets – Automated Speed Enforcement
Over the years I have received many concerns about road safety in Richmond Hill. We have been working hard with our Traffic and Safety Operation Plan and York Region’s Vision Zero Strategy to make our roads safer for all road users. Premiere Ford recently announced the cancellation of Automated Speed Enforcement. In Richmond Hill these cameras were deployed only on Regional Roads and only in school zones or areas where there are large numbers of seniors or other vulnerable road users. While I realize that it may not be politically popular to point this out, the cameras are working. I firmly believe real leadership often means making difficult decisions you know to be in the best interests of our residents and our community. One of the most important roles we play as elected leaders is to increase the safety and livability of our communities and while I respect the Premiere has the power to cancel these cameras, I am most concerned that there is realistically no equivalent effective alternative. As a matter of fact the result of these cameras so far is:- reduced speeding by an average of 15 km/h and
- increased compliance with posted speed limits by 25% and
- are shown to help reduce collisions and severity, save lives and
- Much more cost effective that radar operated by officers as it frees up police resources for other public safety priorities.
- Pr*****@*****io.ca,
- da*********@****la.org
- mi*************@****la.org
Community safety in Richmond Hill is a Shared Responsibility. Stay informed: Sign up for the YRP Newsletter today.
News from the
Office of the Mayor
I look forward to presenting my State of the City on Monday, October 27
All are welcome to attend this luncheon.
Tickets are available through the hosts, the Richmond Hill Board of Trade.
Council meetings both at York Region and Richmond Hill have resumed and my first member motions this fall have been sober ones.
At Richmond Hill Council, I tabled a motion that shows my commitment to following up with the Provincial government on their promise to improve safety at daycare centres.
At York Region Council, I tabled a motion calling for speed reduction tools that are equally effective as Automated Speed Enforcement as a result of the Premier cancelling Automated Speed Camera programs.
I continue to advocate at all levels of government to share the voice of Richmond Hill residents. I believe we are fortunate in Richmond Hill to have very strong Federal and Provincial representatives.
It is a pleasure to foster a positive working relationship with the Federal representatives in Richmond HIll, MP Costas Menegakis and MP Vincent Ho, and I am thankful for their strong voice for our city in Ottawa.
At the Provincial level, Minister Michael Parsa and MPP Daisy Wai are long standing representatives who have advocated for our city at Queens Park while also participating tirelessly in the community.
As a Municipal leader, I appreciate the time these elected officials make to participate in local community events.
To learn more about our Richmond Hill representatives, you can visit their respective websites:
MP Costas Menegakis
MP Vincent Ho
MPP Michael Parsa
MPP Daisy Wai
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
In recognition of the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, we gathered with our Treaty Partners, community, local dignitaries, and City staff to raise the Every Child Matters flag and proclaim this important date in the City of Richmond Hill. Thank you to Chief Sault and Councillor Ferrel from Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations for making the trip to be with us.
It was meaningful to welcome Sarah Loretta Schuster as she offered to smudge attendees with sweet grass grown in the Indigenous Medicine Gardens right here in Richmond Hill. Under Sarah’s watchful eye, the five gardens around the city have produced enough medicines that they were harvested and shared within the community.
Thank you very much, Chi Miigwetch to and Sarah, founder of Miskwaadesi Studio, for the sharing the educational opportunity through your gardens.
Chi Miigwetch once again to and Sarah Loretta Schuster, Miskwaadesi Studio, for the successful season of Medicine Gardens in Richmond Hill. It was an honour to join Sarah, Survivors, and community at her “Honouring the Harvest” event.
New Waterway Signs In Ojibway
I was happy to unveil Richmond Hill waterways signage in traditional Ojibway. It feels that these signs are like a doorway for our community, inviting them to come and learn more about our shared history.
When I imagined an outcome of my Member Motion calling for this action one year ago, I could not have envisioned such a beautiful creation – thank you to the artist, Tracey Anthony, for merging art & information so seamlessly.
Anyone who has been listening to me knows how passionate I am about the waterways in this area. I am so excited to be honouring those important landmarks with their traditional names:
In Lennox Park: Wonscotonach (Won-sco-ton-ach)
Ojibway for “Black Burnt Grounds” (also known as the Don River)
At East Humber Trail: Cobechenonk (Co-bec-he-nonk)
Ojibway for “Leave the Canoes and Go Back” (also known as the Humber River)
At the Rouge River Headwaters Valley and Trails: Chi Sippi (Chee-sippy)
Ojibway for “Large Creek” (also known as the Rouge River)
Together with Council and members of the community, we gathered in Richmond Hill to commemorate and honour the 3rd anniversary of the passing of Mahsa Jina Amini under the Autumn Blaze Maple at the memorial bench dedicated to her life and her memory.
I remember clearly in September 2022 when our Richmond Hill community became a symbol of solidarity for the global movement for women’s rights, human rights, and dignity, sparked by Mahsa’s tragic death. What began as grief and outrage in Iran quickly spread into voices demanding freedom, equality, and justice internationally.
Here in Richmond Hill, over 50,000 people peacefully marched through our streets, joining millions worldwide who were unwilling to stay silent in the face of injustice. It showed us that Richmond Hill is a community that cares deeply about what is right.
Thank you to my Council colleagues, MP Ali Ehsassi, Former MPP Dr. Reza MoridiDr. Hamed Esmaeilion, and to the distinguished guests in attendance.
If you wish to visit the memorial, it is located west of the Lois Hancey Aquatic Centre, near Hopkins St.
News from Council
Micromobility Strategy Approved by Council
At the September 24, 2025 Council meeting, the Richmond Hill Micromobility Strategy passed. This is a document that will guide micromobility use, such as electric bicycles (e-bikes) and kick-style electric scooters (e-scooters). Key actions include:
- Permitting personal e-scooter use on City roads, bicycle lanes, cycle tracks, and in-boulevard multi-use paths;
- Developing micromobility rules and regulations;
- Educating the public and enforcing violations;
- Maintaining infrastructure year-round; and
- Exploring shared micromobility opportunities.
Learn more about the strategy and next steps on the City of Richmond HIll website.
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
The Province of Ontario is transitioning the blue box program to a new model that makes producers of recyclable materials responsible for their collection and processing instead of municipalities.
Starting January 1, 2026, residential recycling in Richmond Hill will be managed by Circular Materials (CM), a non-profit organization that represents producers.
The collection schedule and blue box will stay the same, but recycling-related customer service inquiries (i.e. missed collections and bin sales) must be directed to Miller Waste instead of the City. Contact details will be shared when they are available.
You will continue to receive uninterrupted blue box collection on your regular collection day throughout the transition.
The City will continue to manage green bin, garbage and yard waste collection.
For more information, visit RichmondHill.ca/BlueBox
If you Love Tennis or Pickleball, join the discussion…
- Thursday, Oct 16, 2025
- 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
- Bond Lake Arena, 70 Old Colony Road
City of Richmond Hill staff are developing a Tennis and Pickleball Strategy to address the growing demand for these sports in the community. No registration is needed.
Please join the conversation and share your ideas.
Join the Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services Annual Open House
Saturday, October 4th
- Fire Station 8-1, 191 Major Mackenzie Drive West
- 9 am – 4 pm
At the Open House, you can learn simple but critical steps you can take to make sure you are using lithium-ion batteries safely, while having fun with child-friendly games and activities, live demonstrations (including auto rescue demonstrations and a fire truck simulator), and more!
See you there Richmond Hill!
Community Events and News
Richmond Hill Hockey, Community Spirit, and Fire Safety!
RHFES is teaming up with the Richmond Hill Rampage for their upcoming home game! Join a night of community spirit and fire safety – there will be Fire Prevention Week resources, hand out fun giveaways, and a ceremonial puck drop on Friday October 10, 2025.
It’s a great chance to cheer on the Rampage and learn how to “Charge into Fire Safety” with RHFES!
NEWS FROM BURR HOUSE SPINNERS AND WEAVERS GUILD
The Burr House Spinners and Weavers Guild is a vibrant collection of fibre art enthusiasts, artisans, and artists. The Guild has been active in the Richmond Hill, Ontario community since 1982.
Guild members’ skills range from novice to experienced in a wide variety of fibre arts, including spinning, weaving, dyeing, felting, basketry, tapestry, knitting and crochet.
Visitors and new members are always welcome! Check them out at www.burrhousefibrearts.org.
Climate Action – Save Water
Did you know?
• By cutting water usage, we use less energy to pump and treat it — reducing emissions of air-polluting greenhouse gases.
• Richmond Hill residents consume about 225 litres of water per day!
• Richmond Hill’s target: Reduce water consumption by 25%
It’s Easy to Do!
Save up to 20 L of water per minute using low-flow shower heads
Save up to 14 L of water per flush using low-flow toilets
Use at least 33% less water and 25% less energy by using an Energy Star certified washing machine.
More water and sewage backup tips:
Visit and share Richmond Hill’s Water Conservation Page!
Call Richmond Hill’s Public Works Operations immediately at 905-771-8800 when there’s a sewage backup in your home. They will send an authorized drain contractor to your home. More info here.
Richmond Hill has a Climate Plan – you have a role to play in it!
Join the movement!
As Richmond Hill embraces cleaner transportation options like e-scooters and e-bikes, safety remains our top priority. Following the rules protects everyone on our streets, sidewalks, and trails. So let’s take actions together to build a greener and safer Richmond Hill!
Did you know?
● There were at least 2 deaths and 2 injuries involving e-scooter riders in the GTA during July alone?
● E-scooters are not permitted on municipal roads or trails in Richmond Hill?
● The maximum speed allowed for e-scooters is 24 km/h on level ground?
● The minimum age to operate any type of electric vehicle is 16?
Our Transportation Targets are:
• Majority of trips within the city are done by transit, walking, and cycling.
• 100% of new vehicle sales are EVs by 2040.
Good information to know before you ride:
Explore on foot: Parks Trails and Facilities Map
Richmond Hill has a Climate Plan – you have a role to play in it!
Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home
This year’s Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) campaign focuses on an increasingly important topic: lithium-ion battery safety. These batteries power many devices we use every day – from phones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools.
The campaign reminds us to BUY, CHARGE, and RECYCLE safely:
- Buy batteries and devices from reputable sources
- Charge with care—don’t leave devices plugged in overnight or unattended
- Dispose of used batteries properly—prepare used batteries by taping the terminal ends; never toss them in the trash, dispose of your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location
Let’s all take simple steps to stay safe and “Charge into Fire Safety™” together. Learn more at lithium battery safety, and Fire Prevention Week activities at RichmondHill.ca/FirePreventionWeek.
News from the Food Bank of York Region
October Dates of Significance
The month of October has many important dates in 2025.
October 2 we recognized Yom Kippur
October 6 the Mid-Autumn Festival will be celebrated
October 6 at sundown Sukkot will begin, ending on October 13
October 20 Diwali, also called Deepavali or Deepawali, the Hindu festival of lights, will be celebrated.
October 31 is All Hallows’ Eve (Halloween) and Samhain
Watch out for celebrations and memorials of the following Significant Heritage Dates-
Federally, there are numerous dates of significance in October:
- German Heritage Month
- Canadian Islamic History Month
- Latin American Heritage Month
- Women’s History Month
- National Seniors Day – October 1
- International Day of the Girl Child – October 11
- Persons Day – October 18
Provincially, there are also several dates of significance to acknowledge:
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Hungarian Heritage Month
- Islamic Heritage Month
- Korean Heritage Month
- Ontario Cadets Week – starting on the first Saturday in October
- German Pioneers Day – the day following Thanksgiving Day
- Major-General Sir Isaac Brock Day – October 13
Thank you for your ongoing engagement as we cultivate an inclusive community.
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:
The Burr House Spinners and Weavers Guild would like to invite you to its Fall/Holiday Sale on Saturday November 1st and Sunday November 2nd, 2025 from 10 AM to 5PM.
The Fall/Holiday Sale will have unique pieces, hand-crafted by the members of the guild, available for purchase such as:
• Hand-dyed and hand-spun yarn
• Hand-woven tea towels, rag rugs, scarves, wraps, baskets
• Sewn, knitted and/or crocheted garments, personal accessories and items for the home
• The guild’s well-respected dye plant book Spectrum
Please follow us on Facebook for frequent updates.
Burr House Artisan Gallery
520 Carrville Road Richmond Hill, ON
Hope to see you there!
Richmond Hill September Events
Here are a few of the events I was privileged to participate in lately,on behalf of the City of Richmond Hill
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