Recap: Council Public Meeting - May 27
- Marian
- May 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 4
Council Public Meeting Tuesday May 27, 2025 at 7pm
Council Chambers, 225 East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill
Meeting Agenda: Revised Meeting Agenda
Watch Meeting: Meeting Video
Recap:
The May 27, 2025, City Council Public Meeting in Richmond Hill covered important topics around city development proposals. The proposed changes aim to address housing needs but are met with community resistance. Residents in attendance express concerns about maintaining the current community feel, pointing to issues like increased traffic and environmental changes.
174, 176 and 180 Weldrick Road West
Brief summary of comments:
Emphasized this is an early stage and all comments will be referred back to staff.
Concerns about 50% lot coverage and proximity to the floodplain
Similar to developments on Dexter Road and Annette Gate.
Supports detached homes and smaller units for affordability.
Noted significant reduction in front yard setback (25ft → 5ft), which aligns with modern developments.
Cited high potential traffic impact with 42 units and up to 150 cars in future phases.
Expressed concern about neighborhood fit and community character.
Clarified that changes in development standards are driven by provincial legislation.
0 Longworth
Key points made by Councillor Davidson on this application:
Appreciation for Community Input:
Thanks given to the delegate and 69 residents who submitted letters opposing the application.
Acknowledgement of Housing Needs:
Council is committed to addressing housing needs, but this proposal is not suitable for this location.
Character of the Area:
West Gormley is a small, cohesive neighborhood described in the secondary plan as blending into its natural surroundings.
Proposed five-story buildings would be out of character and the tallest in the area.
Development should protect views of the Oak Ridges Moraine and maintain environmental integrity.
Concerns that approval would set a precedent for overdevelopment in a sensitive area.
Infrastructure Concerns:
No public transit or continuous sidewalks in the area.
Residents are car-dependent for basic services, with nearest grocery stores 5–6 km away.
Importance of Commercial Space:
Maintaining two-storey commercial zoning supports local walkability and access to essential services.
Mixed-use zoning could jeopardize future commercial development unless minimum commercial floor space is mandated.
On the Agenda:
Redevelopment of the property to build a low-density residential project consisting of 12 new three-storey single detached homes on a private road, in addition to retaining and renovating 1 existing home.
These homes would be built along a private road within the development and would be allowed to include up to two rental units (called "Additional Residential Units" or ARUs) in each house which fits within the City's planning vision.
However, concerns remain about compatibility with the existing neighborhood, floodplain encroachment, and specifics of zoning variances (e.g., lot coverage, yard setbacks).
A more detailed review is needed before a final decision.
Centerfield Properties wants to build two 5-storey buildings on a currently empty lot that is zoned for small commercial buildings. The two proposed buildings would include 201 apartment units, 371 parking spaces, Indoor and rooftop outdoor spaces for residents with an underground garage and shops or businesses on the ground floor.
The proposed five (5) storey high density, mid-rise mixed-use residential/commercial
buildings are not permitted within the Neighbourhood Commercial area of the
West Gormley Secondary Plan.
No affordable housing units included, though 10% of apartments would have 3 bedrooms.
The subject lands are not located within a strategic growth area.
The subject lands are within an area of High Aquifer Vulnerability
City staff are still reviewing the proposal but have raised some concerns:
The development may be too tall and dense for this location.
Waste, water, parking, and environmental issues (due to the area’s sensitive groundwater) need more detailed planning.
City staff will gather feedback from residents, council, and outside agencies.
A final decision will be made after a full review and another report.
Public Comments:
The public may submit written correspondence regarding agenda matters by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca. Written correspondence must be submitted by 12 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments submitted will be provided to all Members of Council, considered as public information and noted in the public record.
Delegations:
No prior registration is required to make an in-person Delegation, but is encouraged. Prior registration is required should the public intend to make an electronic delegation by video conference or telephone. Applications to appear as a delegation must be submitted by 12 p.m. on the day of the meeting by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca or by using the on-line application form. The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.
