From the Desk of Mayor David West
November E-Newsletter 2026
Dear Neighbours,
Thank you. I am honoured by the confidence you have placed in me to serve another term as your Mayor.
Richmond Hill is strong because of the people who live, work, volunteer and invest here. Every day, I see neighbours helping neighbours, businesses creating opportunities, and community organizations making a difference. That spirit is what makes Richmond Hill such a special place.
Richmond Hill residents have placed their trust in a team with a proven record of service and accomplishment and I extend my congratulations to all my Council colleagues who were re-elected October 26th. Thank you for running positive campaigns focused on ideas, community priorities and the future of Richmond Hill.
I was grateful for the opportunity to speak with so many residents during the campaign, and I plan to continue those conversations. Watch this space for upcoming community conversation events.
There is important work ahead, and I am excited for what we can accomplish together. Continuing to work alongside residents, Richmond Hill Council, staff, other levels of government, and community partners as we build on our successes and prepare for the future will be my pleasure.
Thank you for your trust. Let’s keep moving Richmond Hill forward.
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.
Community safety, security, and inclusion are foundational to our great city. York Regional Police are laser focused on the safety and well being of Richmond Hill residents and businesses. As your Mayor, I am listening and working to do all I can to ensure our city is a safe one.
By maintaining my close working relationship with the YRP District 2 leadership and staff, I will continue to prioritize your concerns.
As the holiday gift-giving season approaches, I encourage residents to understand the rules before purchasing an e-scooter or e-bike. While these devices are widely available for sale, retailers are not required to explain where and how they can be legally operated. That makes it important for consumers and parents to do their research and make informed decisions before purchasing.
I continue to advocate for stronger action on this issue. I have raised concerns with Provincial representatives regarding the need for clearer legislation, with York Regional Police regarding enforcement, and with York Region school boards regarding restrictions on these devices on elementary school property.
Public safety remains the priority, particularly when it comes to protecting children and pedestrians.
Break and entry rates typically increase in the fall and winter in York Region. One cause is the extend hours of darkness after the time change.
I joined YRP to launch Project Fall Back last week. Together we shared the good news that for the second straight year, the number of break and enter incidents across York Region is declining compared to this point in the previous year. (In 2026, the rate of decline has more than doubled with B&E’s down 25%* YTD vs 11%* YTD the year before.)
“Project Fall Back” reminds us to keep up the good work, remain vigilent, and know when to report suspcious activity.
YRP is the only service in all of Ontario that has a task force dedicated to residential break and enters. They are laser focused on continuing this positive trajectory and as residents, we have an important role in community safety.
Clocks fell back an hour on November 1st and that means our city gets dark, earlier. Follow YRPs suggestions to protect your home and family. Visit yrp.ca/BandE for more tips.
News from the
Office of the Mayor
Looking forward....
During the recent municipal election, Richmond Hill residents supported my platform with the highest number of votes ever recorded for a mayoral candidate in Richmond Hill history.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving as your Mayor, and over the coming term, my focus will remain on five key priorities that support a safe, vibrant, and well-managed Richmond Hill for today and for future generations.
A Safe, Inclusive and Livable Richmond Hill
Strengthening public safety, supporting residents of all ages, and celebrating the diversity that makes Richmond Hill a welcoming community.
Affordability and Good Governance
Delivering responsible financial management, keeping taxes as low as possible, and ensuring transparent, accountable leadership.
Managing Growth for the Future
Planning responsibly for growth with investments in housing, transit, economic development, community services, and opportunities for young people.
Building a Sustainable and Resilient Community
Advancing environmental initiatives, supporting local sustainability efforts, and preparing our community for future challenges.
Recreation, Culture and Arts
Enhancing parks and recreational facilities, supporting arts and culture, and creating opportunities for residents to connect and enjoy community life.
The election is behind us, the new term lies ahead, and I’m happy to report that I am wasting no time in getting to work.
This week, I’m in Ottawa meeting with federal representatives, ambassadors, and parliamentary leaders to strengthen connections and advocate for Richmond Hill.
Strong relationships matter. They help ensure our community’s priorities are heard, create new opportunities, and raise Richmond Hill’s profile beyond our borders.
Last term, I worked to strengthen our network at the provincial, national, and international levels. Those relationships can help attract investment, support economic growth, and open doors to partnerships that enhance our city’s prosperity and quality of life.
I committed to being a strong voice for Richmond Hill, and I’m proud to continue the work.
Dave Barrow Civic Square Update
The work is underway at Dave Barrow Civic Square!
In the 2026-2030 term of Council, we will get to enjoy this community space, the 6th destination park in Richmond Hill and it promises to deliver a big bang with elements like an outdoor amphitheater, a permanent stage and screen, an events plaza, a winter skating rink, natural spaces and placemaker features….
To learn more about the project scope and timelines, visit RichmondHill.ca/ParksProjects.
Council Meetings will resume on November 23 for the Inaugural Council Meeting, followed by the Committee of the Whole meeting December 2nd.
Once again,I will invite your City Councillors to sign the Council Pledge, as I did for the last term, to ensure decorum, respect, and open dialog are the standard upheld at Council Meetings.
Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public. 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.
The schedule of meetings is on the City of Richmond Hill website, “Council, Council Calendar”.
Thank you for your civic engagement.
City of Richmond Hill News
59th Volunteer Achievement Awards
Celebrating the hearts behind our community.
The Volunteer Achievement Awards celebrate outstanding volunteers and community organizations that help make Richmond Hill a great place to live, work and grow.
Know someone making a difference? Nominate them for an award. Community organizations celebrating 10, 15, 20 or 25+ years of service can also apply for a Milestone Anniversary Certificate.
Residents are also invited to participate in the awards process by applying to join the Volunteer Achievement Awards Selection Committee.
The deadline to nominate a volunteer or request a certificate is Friday, November 20, 2026.
Merry Marketplace is Back
Discover unique handcrafted gifts from local artisans, savour delicious seasonal food and beverages, and gather around the fire with family and friends. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the season, embrace holiday traditions, and create lasting memories.
No holiday celebration is complete without a visit from Santa! Join us every Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m. for a special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus. Be sure to bring your phone and snap a festive Santa selfie.
Every week there is a different theme so check out the schedule and plan to visit every week for fabulous (free) family friendly fun.
Running for 5 nights at Richmond Green Park, Saturday, November 14, 21 & 28, December 5, 12, 2026.
What's On in November Community Events and News
Lest we Forget
Sunday November 8, Richmond Hill Legion Branch 375 will host the annual Remembrance Day parade, beginning at Wright Street and proceeding south on Yonge Street to the Richmond Hill Cenotaph.
All are welcome to attend.
Small Business Market at the Richmond Hill Public Library
Shop local at Richmond Hill Public Library’s Small Business Market on Saturday, November 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Central Branch! Discover everything from delicious baked goods and handmade jewellery to art, ceramics, unique gifts and more while supporting local businesses in our community.
Explore the full list of participating vendors: https://rebrand.ly/23pmtxl
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week
(November 1-7) is a reminder that carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent danger you can’t see, smell, or taste.
As furnaces, fireplaces, and other fuel-burning appliances are used more often during colder weather, make sure your home is protected.
To stay safe:
- Install CO alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas.
- Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a licensed technician.
- Never run vehicles or generators inside a garage.
- Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow, leaves, and debris.
Working CO alarms save lives. Learn more at RichmondHill.ca/CarbonMonoxide.
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:
Richmond Hill Events
Here are a few of the events I was privileged to participate in lately, on behalf of the City of Richmond Hill
Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating in our community - I was delighted to join the York Region Indian Seniors Association annual event and welcome the Festival of Lights together.
Celebrating the 2026 Mid Autumn Festival in 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