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Stay Informed with the Oak Ridges Wrap Up Newsletter Read the September 26th edition here: Oak Ridges Wrap Up The Oak Ridges Wrap Up is more than just a newsletter; it’s a vital resource for anyone living in or around Oak Ridges and Richmond Hill. By subscribing, you will stay informed and connected to your community. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the local conversation. Subscribing is easy! Click the button above to sign up for the Oak Ridges Wrap Up. You will receive regular updates and never miss out on local happenings.

On September 24, 2025, Richmond Hill Council approved its Micromobility Strategy  and associated Active Transportation & Micromobility By-law  to govern the use of e-bikes, e-scooters and similar devices in the city. What the Strategy Does Opens up on-road use of personal e-scooters on municipal roads with posted speed limits of 50 km/h or less, as well as in bicycle lanes, cycle tracks, and multi-use paths adjacent to roads. Disallows micromobility devices (e-scooters, power-assist e-bikes) on sidewalks (except for youth on traditional bicycles under age 14). Retains traditional bicycles (and pedal-assist e-bikes) on trails and paths where already permitted; for power-assist e-bikes and scooters, use on park trails remains under review. Includes measures for education, public outreach, enforcement, and infrastructure maintenance (e.g. snow clearing, repairing bike lanes). Suggests exploring a shared micromobility pilot (scooter / bike sharing) in future, potentially in cooperation with neighbouring municipalities (Markham, Vaughan) or York Region. Enforcement & Compliance Richmond Hill plans a joint enforcement regime  involving the City’s by-law officers and the York Regional Police  to enforce the new micromobility rules. Initial phases will emphasize education and awareness , followed by progressive enforcement of violations (e.g., riding on sidewalks, riding in prohibited zones, parking violations). Complementing City enforcement, York Regional Police already engage in traffic and cycling enforcement (e.g. “One Metre” campaign) in the region and may apply to micromobility offenses in their jurisdiction. You Should Also Know: Helmet Rules & Requirements Under Ontario’s e-scooter pilot regulation, riders under 18   must wear a helmet  that meets the standards under the Highway Traffic Act or associated regulation. For riders 18 or older, a helmet is strongly recommended  though not legally mandated under the e-scooter pilot rules. For e-bikes , Ontario already requires that riders aged 16+ wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet, paralleling the rules for conventional bikes. Division of Responsibilities: Province vs City Provincial (Ontario) role : The province lays down the operating framework for e-scooters (via its e-scooter pilot regulation) — for example, specifying minimum age, speed limits, definition of devices, and safety rules. Municipalities must “opt into” the provincial pilot to allow personal e-scooter use. Municipal (City of Richmond Hill) role : The city sets local rules (via by-law) about where devices may be ridden, how they may be parked, and under what conditions. It also administers day-to-day enforcement (via bylaw officers and coordination with police) and leads education, infrastructure adjustments, and maintenance.

Council Meeting Wednesday September 24, 2025 at 9:30am Meeting Agenda: Meeting Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Watch Meeting Recap: All agenda items were approved at this week’s Council meeting. Items approved include stronger safety at child-focused sites, and the Micromobility Strategy. Key Discussions Transit Updates York Region Transit outlined the 2026 service plan, including more frequent buses on major routes, expanded on-demand transit (like ride-hailing but public), and better communication to boost ridership in suburban areas like Oak Ridges. Integrity Commissioner’s Report The Integrity Commissioner, Suzanne Craig, presented the 2024-2025 annual report, discussing informal and formal complaints received. A notable formal complaint under investigation involved concerns of nepotism and unauthorized access to municipal offices involving Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola's spouse. Although no breach of the Code of Conduct was found against the council member, the Commissioner recommended policy enhancements in council office staffing, access, and nepotism to prevent future issues. The report sparked extensive council discussion on transparency, privacy, policy clarity, and the delicate balance between accountability and personal privacy. Councillor Davidson emphasized the importance of accountability within councillors’ offices, including protecting staff, safeguarding confidential information, and ensuring municipal resources are not misused. She presented a motion to receive the investigation report regarding Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola and to direct staff to draft a council office staffing and access policy. Council unanimously supported drafting updated policies on council office staffing and access, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and clear workplace boundaries. New Agenda Items Include: Member Motion submitted by Mayor West regarding Strengthening Safety Measures Around Child-Centered Facilities Following the tragic crash at First Roots Daycare, Richmond Hill reaffirms its commitment to child safety. The community has strongly advocated for change, including a petition with over 500 signatures. While municipalities lack the authority to mandate safety barriers at childcare sites, Council supports the Province’s recent steps to improve protections and urges further action. Council directs Mayor West to send a follow-up letter to the Minister of Education, endorsing these efforts and calling for swift, effective safety measures. Richmond Hill will continue working with the Province to ensure timely implementation. Annual Report of the City's Integrity Commissioner, Suzanne Craig The Integrity Commissioner, Suzanne Craig, oversaw complaints and inquiries about council members’ behaviour from May 2024 to June 2025 . During that time: 1 formal complaint  was investigated. It involved allegations about a councillor and their spouse. The complaint was not substantiated , but the investigation raised concerns about family members’ access to city offices and nepotism . 3 informal complaints  were received, mostly about issues outside the Commissioner’s mandate (like event endorsements and city operations). In total, 25 inquiries  were handled (18 related to Code of Conduct, 7 from council members, 10 from the public, and 1 from staff). Recommendations included tightening policies on: Who can access municipal offices (to prevent family or friends from having improper access). Fair and transparent hiring practices in council offices (to avoid nepotism). The report notes upcoming provincial legislation ( Bill 9, the Municipal Accountability Act, 2025 ) that would create a standardized code of conduct across Ontario municipalities and potentially allow councils to remove members for serious misconduct. Total expenditures for the office were $11,907.37  for the year. Report from Suzanne Craig, Integrity Commissioner, “Formal Code of Conduct Complaint Investigation Report of Regional Council Member Joe DiPaola" The complaint was about Regional Councillor Joe Di Paola  and how his wife was allegedly running his office and mistreating a staff member. The allegations included harassment, misuse of city property (like computers and email), improper access to city offices, nepotism (family members being involved in office work), and confidentiality concerns. After a full investigation, the Integrity Commissioner found no breach of the Code of Conduct  by the Councillor. The allegations against his wife were not substantiated, and she is not subject to the Code since she’s not an elected official. However, the investigation confirmed that his wife was heavily involved in office operations, using his access card and being copied on staff emails. This raised broader concerns about office management and policy gaps. The Commissioner emphasized that spouses and family members should not be running councillors’ offices, accessing city computers, or regularly entering municipal offices . Recommendations to Council : Create a clear policy so only staff, consultants, or volunteers (not family) can use access cards or attend internal staff events. Review and update hiring practices and the Nepotism Policy  to ensure fairness and transparency. Memorandum from Paolo Masaro, Commissioner of Infrastructure and Engineering Services, - Staff Report SRIES.25.006 - Micromobility Strategy Last week Council discussed the City’s proposed Micromobility Strategy , which sets out rules for e-scooters, bikes, and sidewalk cycling. Two main topics came up at the meeting: Dedicated Micromobility Infrastructure Mayor West asked staff to look at how Regional Roads  (major roads managed by York Region) could be used for safe, separated micromobility lanes. Staff noted this aligns with the City’s Active Transportation Network Plan , which already coordinates with the Region, developers, and City capital projects to expand cycling and micromobility routes. By-law Revisions on Sidewalk Cycling Some councillors suggested adding exceptions  to the sidewalk cycling ban (e.g., parents riding with children, near schools, in winter, or for short connections). Staff explained that exemptions in other cities caused confusion and were hard to manage. Instead, Richmond Hill recommends a clear city-wide rule : no sidewalk cycling, except for children 14 and under . Enforcement will focus on unsafe riding , not penalizing people unnecessarily. Staff will continue monitoring new technologies and trends to see if future by-law changes are needed. Closed Session To consider matters related to the receiving of advice that is subject to: solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; and related to litigation affecting the municipality regarding the construction of the Oak Ridges Community Centre, Aquicon Construction Co. Ltd. et al ats. The Corporation of the City of Richmond Hill, Court File No. CV-21-00667419-0000, (Section 239(2)(e) and (f) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O; 2001, c. 25). Agenda Items Forwarded from Committee of the Whole include: Micromobility Strategy What’s Being Proposed Adopt new by-laws  (Active Transportation and Micromobility By-law No. 90-25 and amendments to the penalty system). Permit e-scooters and e-bikes  on: Roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less Bike lanes and cycle tracks Multi-use paths beside roads (But not on sidewalks; kids under 14 can still cycle on sidewalks). Keep e-scooters and power-assisted bikes off park trails for now  (under review in a future trails study). Education and enforcement : A three-phase public education campaign plus enforcement by York Regional Police and City by-law officers. Future step : Consider a shared micromobility pilot  (rental e-scooters/e-bikes) in partnership with Vaughan, Markham, and York Region. Timeline 2025 : Approve by-laws and opt into the provincial e-scooter pilot. 2026 : Launch public education campaigns and begin implementing rules. Future : Explore shared micromobility systems once regulations and culture are established. Bottom Line : Richmond Hill is embracing safe micromobility to give residents more choices for short trips  and help build a more sustainable city. Request for Direction - Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications - Norfolk Development Inc. - 162, 166, 170, 174, 178, and 182 Norfolk Avenue Norfolk Development Inc. has proposed a 15-storey apartment building with 344 units  at 162–182 Norfolk Avenue . What’s happening? The developer appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT)  after Council did not make a decision in time. City staff reviewed the plans and are recommending that Council oppose the project . Why staff don’t support it: Too tall & dense : The City’s plan allows up to 10 storeys  here, but the proposal asks for 15 storeys —much higher than what’s planned for this neighbourhood. Doesn’t fit the area : Surrounding homes are mostly low-rise. The tower would loom over nearby houses and apartments. Poor design : The building is too close to property lines and too bulky compared to what City policies require. Parks : The park space offered is too small. The City wants a bigger expansion of Essex Parkette. Affordable housing : No clear commitment to provide required affordable or family-sized units. Unresolved issues : Traffic, waste, and servicing concerns remain. Next Steps :Council will take a position, and City staff will represent Richmond Hill at the OLT hearing. Bottom Line : The City believes this proposal is overdevelopment  for the site and not a good fit for the neighbourhood. Request for Approval – Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project – City of Richmond Hill Richmond Hill is updating and consolidating its zoning rules into one modern, city-wide by-law. This new Comprehensive Zoning By-law (CZBL) replaces older, outdated zoning regulations and aligns with the City’s Official Plan and provincial policies. What’s Changing • The CZBL covers all major areas: Centres and Corridors, Neighbourhoods, Employment Lands, Greenway System, and more. • It sets clear rules for building heights, densities, land uses, parking, landscaping, and environmental protections. • It introduces updated standards for things like electric vehicle infrastructure, short-term rentals, and additional residential units (like basement apartments). • It includes special zones for townhouses, apartments, commercial areas, and natural spaces. Why It Matters • Ensures development is consistent with Richmond Hill’s long-term vision. • Supports housing growth, affordability, and sustainability. • Makes zoning easier to understand and enforce. • Helps the City meet targets under the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. Community Input • Residents and stakeholders provided feedback on everything from parking and patios to building design and neighbourhood character. • Many suggestions were incorporated, and future updates will be made as needed. Next Steps • Council is being asked to approve the new CZBL. • If passed, it will replace previous zoning by-laws and guide future development across Richmond Hill. Public Comments:   The public may submit written correspondence regarding agenda items by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca . Written correspondence must be submitted by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Comments submitted will be provided to all Members of Council, are considered as public information and will be included on the public agenda posted to the City’s website. Delegations:   Any person who wishes to speak to Council on agenda items must pre-register with the Office of the Clerk by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Applications to appear as a delegation can be submitted by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca  or by using the on-line application form . Delegations can be in person, or electronically by video conference or telephone. The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.  Public Forum:   Any person who wishes to speak to Council on a matter not on the agenda must pre-register with the Office of the Clerk by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Persons wanting to address Council during the Public Forum portion of the meeting must register by sending an email to   clerks@richmondhill.ca  or by using the on-line application form . Public Forum participation can be in-person, or electronically by video conference or telephone. A maximum of five persons will be allowed to register for the Public Forum on a first come first serve basis.

This report was prepared by researchers with the University of Ottawa’s Missing Middle Initiative and commissioned by the Residential Construction Council of Ontario. It compares housing starts across the first six months of 2025 with the same period over the previous four years, starting in 2021. Richmond Hill is building more homes than before, especially ground-oriented and condos, which is creating jobs. However, home sales are very weak, rental housing is not being built, and the city is still missing its housing target. Compared to other GTA municipalities, Richmond Hill is doing relatively well (B grade), but there are still big gaps. Many GTA municipalities are struggling: most got F grades , with major declines in housing starts and sales. Best performers: Milton (A grade, 113% increase in housing starts, positive employment). Richmond Hill (B grade, strong job growth but weak sales). Poor performers: Toronto, Vaughan, Newmarket, Ajax, Brampton, Oakville, etc. had big declines in both starts and sales, with large job losses.

Council Public Meeting Tuesday September 23, 2025 at 6pm. (Note the new start time for Council Public Meetings) View Meeting Agenda: Revised Agenda Watch Meeting: Watch Meeting On the Agenda: Request for Comments - Zoning By-law Amendment Application - LESLIE CENTRE LTD. - 1430 Major Mackenzie Drive East The applicant is seeking approval of a Zoning By-law Amendment application to permit an outdoor sales and display area, and outdoor storage for seasonal products such as plants, produce, and soil along the front apron of the existing FreshCo grocery store. Request for Comments - Zoning By-law Amendment Application - 2717632 ONTARIO LTD. - 491 Elgin Mills Road West The applicant is seeking approval of a Zoning By-law Amendment application to permit a residential development to be comprised of four (4) semi-detached dwellings. 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 found on Richmondhill.ca . The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.

Early data from York Region’s 20 existing fixed Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras shows real, demonstrable impacts in road safety. York Region found when ASE is on Regional roads, cameras help: Reduce collisions: Total collisions are anticipated to be 53% lower from 175 collisions annually to 93 by year-end Reduce injuries: Severe collisions with serious injuries have also declined significantly, down from an annual average of 39 to 8 serious injuries Drivers comply with speeds: When ASE cameras are active, vehicle speeds decrease by an average of 15 km/h, and compliance with posted speed limits increases by 25% Change behaviours: Penalty orders issued have decreased by 35% since January, suggesting more drivers are adjusting their habits and following the posted speed limit Speed is a critical factor in the severity of collisions. Data shows if a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle travelling at 60 km/h, the chance of survival is zero . Lower speeds are critical in areas where children and pedestrians are present. New research from CAA South Central Ontario released in July 2025 also shows ASE is changing Ontarian’s driver behaviour and drivers support the program. Study findings include: 73% of Ontario drivers slow down when nearing an ASE camera and 52% are unlikely to speed up after they pass through an ASE zone 73% of Ontario drivers support ASE in targeted areas like school zones or near community centres and 76% believe ASE cameras deter speeding altogether These findings of public support are important, as the study also shows speeding remains one of Ontario’s most reported dangerous driving behaviours, with 40% of drivers admitting to it in the past year. Please note that the City of Richmond Hill currently does not have any ASE cameras installed.

For the week from Monday September 15 to Sunday September 21, 2025 Visit the York Regional Police (YRP) Community Safety Data Portal  for more information about these crimes and their locations using the Community Safety Map.  You can also learn more about crime trends affecting Richmond Hill using the Crime Trend Dashboards. For additional information on Crime Prevention, visit: https://www.caroldavidsonoakridges.ca/crime-prevention (Please note that the data included in this summary is preliminary and is subject to change as investigations are completed. These are not official crime statistics.)

York Regional Police expands community safety tech with 22 new CCTV cameras, thanks to $255K in provincial funding matched by York Regional Police. These cameras, equipped with automated licence plate readers, will help officers detect stolen vehicles in real time and respond swiftly, preventing further crimes like home invasions and carjackings. 📍Richmond Hill will see new installations, bringing the total to 10 cameras, part of a growing network aimed at curbing auto theft and violent crime. A pilot project launched in April 2024 already showed promising results, reducing violent crime by 6% near camera sites. 🎥 Cameras will only monitor public spaces and store footage for 72 hours unless needed for investigations. The initiative reflects a data-driven approach to policing, targeting high-risk areas and modernizing crime prevention tools. Locations in Richmond Hill are at: Yonge St. / Crosby Ave., Richmond Hill Yonge St. / Carville Rd., Richmond Hill Norman Bethune Ave / East Beaver Creek Rd., Richmond Hill Hwy. 7 / East Beaver Creek Rd., Richmond Hill Yonge St. / Arnold Cres., Richmond Hill Red Maple Rd. / High Tech Rd., Richmond Hill Yonge St. / Major Mackenzie Dr., Richmond Hill Yonge St. / Regatta Ave., Richmond Hill Yonge St. / Doncaster Ave., Richmond Hill Major Mackenzie Dr. E. / Bayview Ave., Richmond Hill More info: Ontario Investing to Keep York Region Safe

Stay Informed with the Oak Ridges Wrap Up Newsletter Read the September 19th edition here: Oak Ridges Wrap Up The Oak Ridges Wrap Up is more than just a newsletter; it’s a vital resource for anyone living in or around Oak Ridges and Richmond Hill. By subscribing, you will stay informed and connected to your community. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the local conversation. Subscribing is easy! Click the button above to sign up for the Oak Ridges Wrap Up. You will receive regular updates and never miss out on local happenings.

Committee of the Whole Meeting Wednesday September 17, 2025 at 9:30am A Committee of the Whole meeting is when all members of Council come together to talk through issues in a more relaxed setting than a formal Council meeting. It’s a chance to have open, informal discussions about policies, bylaws, or other matters and make recommendations that will be brought forward to a regular Council meeting for final approval. Meeting Agenda: Revised Meeting Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Meeting Video Part 1 & Part 2 Recap: Council discussed a new micromobility plan to manage e-bikes and e-scooters in Richmond Hill. The plan highlights benefits like better transit connections, greener travel, and more local options, but also tackles issues such as safety, rules, and winter maintenance. Key points: Personal e-scooters would be allowed on bike lanes, not sidewalks. Kids under 14 can still ride regular bikes on sidewalks. Safety education and gradual enforcement are planned. A shared e-scooter pilot could launch in 2027. Staff will also look at improving regional boulevards for micro-mobility use. Council also reviewed updates to the comprehensive zoning bylaw update, focusing on how employment lands are handled, individual property concerns, and public feedback. Finally, after a tragic incident at a childcare center, council unanimously supported asking the province to strengthen safety standards in childcare facilities. All items were moved to next week's Council meeting. Agenda Items Include: Micromobility Strategy What’s Being Proposed Adopt new by-laws  (Active Transportation and Micromobility By-law No. 90-25 and amendments to the penalty system). Permit e-scooters and e-bikes  on: Roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less Bike lanes and cycle tracks Multi-use paths beside roads (But not on sidewalks; kids under 14 can still cycle on sidewalks). Keep e-scooters and power-assisted bikes off park trails for now  (under review in a future trails study). Education and enforcement : A three-phase public education campaign plus enforcement by York Regional Police and City by-law officers. Future step : Consider a shared micromobility pilot  (rental e-scooters/e-bikes) in partnership with Vaughan, Markham, and York Region. Timeline 2025 : Approve by-laws and opt into the provincial e-scooter pilot. 2026 : Launch public education campaigns and begin implementing rules. Future : Explore shared micromobility systems once regulations and culture are established. Bottom Line : Richmond Hill is embracing safe micromobility to give residents more choices for short trips  and help build a more sustainable city. Request for Direction - Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications - Norfolk Development Inc. - 162, 166, 170, 174, 178, and 182 Norfolk Avenue Norfolk Development Inc. has proposed a 15-storey apartment building with 344 units  at 162–182 Norfolk Avenue . What’s happening? The developer appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT)  after Council did not make a decision in time. City staff reviewed the plans and are recommending that Council oppose the project . Why staff don’t support it: Too tall & dense : The City’s plan allows up to 10 storeys  here, but the proposal asks for 15 storeys —much higher than what’s planned for this neighbourhood. Doesn’t fit the area : Surrounding homes are mostly low-rise. The tower would loom over nearby houses and apartments. Poor design : The building is too close to property lines and too bulky compared to what City policies require. Parks : The park space offered is too small. The City wants a bigger expansion of Essex Parkette. Affordable housing : No clear commitment to provide required affordable or family-sized units. Unresolved issues : Traffic, waste, and servicing concerns remain. Next Steps :Council will take a position, and City staff will represent Richmond Hill at the OLT hearing. Bottom Line : The City believes this proposal is overdevelopment  for the site and not a good fit for the neighbourhood. Request for Approval – Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project – City of Richmond Hill Richmond Hill is updating and consolidating its zoning rules into one modern, city-wide by-law. This new Comprehensive Zoning By-law (CZBL) replaces older, outdated zoning regulations and aligns with the City’s Official Plan and provincial policies. What’s Changing • The CZBL covers all major areas: Centres and Corridors, Neighbourhoods, Employment Lands, Greenway System, and more. • It sets clear rules for building heights, densities, land uses, parking, landscaping, and environmental protections. • It introduces updated standards for things like electric vehicle infrastructure, short-term rentals, and additional residential units (like basement apartments). • It includes special zones for townhouses, apartments, commercial areas, and natural spaces. Why It Matters • Ensures development is consistent with Richmond Hill’s long-term vision. • Supports housing growth, affordability, and sustainability. • Makes zoning easier to understand and enforce. • Helps the City meet targets under the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. Community Input • Residents and stakeholders provided feedback on everything from parking and patios to building design and neighbourhood character. • Many suggestions were incorporated, and future updates will be made as needed. Next Steps • Council is being asked to approve the new CZBL. • If passed, it will replace previous zoning by-laws and guide future development across Richmond Hill. Public Comments:   The public may submit written correspondence regarding agenda items by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca . Written correspondence must be submitted by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Comments submitted will be provided to all Members of Council, are considered as public information and will be included on the public agenda posted to the City’s website. Delegations:   Any person who wishes to speak to Council on agenda items must pre-register with the Office of the Clerk by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Applications to appear as a delegation can be submitted by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca  or by using the on-line application form . Delegations can be in person, or electronically by video conference or telephone. The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.

Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting Tuesday September 16, 2025 at 1:30pm A Budget Committee of the Whole meeting is when all members of Council come together to review and discuss the proposed budget in a more flexible format than a regular Council meeting. It’s designed to encourage open conversation, questions, and feedback from everyone before any final decisions are made. The goal is to build understanding and shape recommendations for final approval at a future Council meeting. Meeting Agenda: Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Meeting Video Agenda Items: 2025 Year-End Operating Forecast Balanced Budget  – Despite unexpected costs this year, Richmond Hill is on track to finish 2025 on budget. Extra Revenues & Savings Higher income from late tax payments, investment earnings, and building permits. Savings on insurance, energy, and waste collection. Unexpected Costs $3.8M  emergency road repair at West Beaver Creek (sinkhole & sewer collapse). Extra costs for snow clearing after a harsh winter. Higher costs in fire services due to overtime and repairs. Water & Wastewater  – A shortfall of $3.7M  caused by lower water use and leaks. This will be covered by reserve funds (no impact on services this year). Stormwater Fund  – A small surplus ( $143K ) will be set aside for future water quality protection projects. Bottom Line : Richmond Hill remains financially stable. Careful planning and reserve funds ensure services continue without interruption. 2026 Budget Survey Results 2026 Budget Survey Highlights Between May 27 and June 17, 2025, Richmond Hill received 180 responses to its budget survey. Here's what residents had to say: Top Funding Priorities Residents identified their top three areas for funding: Snow and windrow clearing Parks and outdoor recreation Fire protection and emergency services Lowest Funding Priorities The areas selected for lowest funding priority were: City festivals and events (especially Council-related) Climate and environmental initiatives Affordable and rental housing programs Housing Initiatives Top priorities included: Investing in infrastructure to support housing (29%) Streamlining planning and permitting (19%) Regulating secondary suites and addressing illegal units Residents also voiced concern over housing affordability and environmental impacts on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Recreation & Culture Most support went to: Maintaining existing parks and facilities (37%) Building new trails and green spaces (21%) Some called for upgrades (e.g., tennis courts, cricket field) and more programs for older adults, while others urged fiscal restraint and private partnerships. Fiscal Sustainability To balance the budget, respondents preferred: Reducing or eliminating some services (49%) Slight property tax increases (24%) Debt financing for capital projects (18%) Feedback emphasized efficiency, cost control, and exploring new revenue sources like hotel taxes and naming rights. Public Comments:   The public may submit written correspondence regarding agenda items by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca . Written correspondence must be submitted by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Comments submitted will be provided to all Members of Council, are considered as public information and will be included on the public agenda posted to the City’s website. Delegations:   Any person who wishes to speak to Council on agenda items must pre-register with the Office of the Clerk by 12 p.m. (noon) one business day before the meeting. Applications to appear as a delegation can be submitted by email to clerks@richmondhill.ca  or by using the on-line application form . Delegations can be in person, or electronically by video conference or telephone. The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.

Council Public Meeting Tuesday September 2, 2025 at 6pm. (Note the new start time for Council Public Meetings) View Meeting Agenda: Agenda Watch Meeting: View Video On the Agenda: Request for Comments - Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project - City of Richmond Hill The City is creating a single, city-wide zoning by-law to replace older by-laws (like By-law 30-25). Zoning rules govern what can be built where, how tall, how dense, and for what use (housing, commercial, parks, etc.). Why it’s happening: Ontario law requires zoning by-laws to be updated within three years of a new Official Plan. Richmond Hill is updating its Official Plan now. This new by-law will simplify, modernize, and consolidate zoning across the whole city. It also ties into the Housing Accelerator Fund, aiming to speed up housing (including affordable housing). Areas covered: Centres and Corridors (e.g., Richmond Hill Centre, Yonge & Carrville, Yonge & Bernard, Village Centre, Newkirk, Oak Ridges). Neighbourhoods (including North Leslie and West Gormley). Greenway System (Oak Ridges Moraine, Greenbelt, open space). Employment Lands (business/industrial parks). Utility Corridors (infrastructure corridors). Leslie Street Institutional Area. Key points: This will repeal By-law 30-25 (currently under appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal) and replace it with one unified by-law. Zoning for Richmond Hill Centre is now fully integrated. Rules will align with provincial growth targets, York Region’s plan, and Richmond Hill’s Official Plan. Focus on intensification around transit (subway, BRT stations), creating complete communities, and protecting green/environmental lands. Public concerns raised include parking rules, front yard landscaping, exceptions for special areas, and how new zoning interacts with existing uses. Next steps: This is a request for comments – Council and the public can give feedback. More public engagement is planned before Council finalizes the Comprehensive Zoning By-law. 👉 In short: Richmond Hill is moving from a patchwork of old zoning rules to one modern, city-wide zoning by-law that supports growth (especially housing near transit), protects green space, and aligns with provincial and regional policies. 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 found on Richmondhill.ca . The Office of the Clerk will provide instructions on appearing as a delegation.