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Access the Oak Ridges Wrap Up newsletter here: June 27th Wrap Up

Learn About Stormwater Management

On Victoria Day, Richmond Hill Fire responded to a grass fire in Oak Ridges caused by improper firework use. I continue to receive numerous complaints from residents about illegal fireworks across our community. In response, I have submitted a motion to Council requesting staff to evaluate the feasibility of banning fireworks and provide a report that includes: Alternative celebration options (e.g., drone shows) Cost and environmental impact assessments Comparison of policies from other municipalities Complaint and enforcement analysis Regards, Councillor Carol Davidson

There will be an upcoming closure on Stouffville Road between Bayview Avenue and Leslie Street from Wednesday, July 2, 2025 to Friday, July 4, 2025. A closure is necessary to accommodate the construction of two small tunnels under the road to allow endangered Jefferson Salamanders to safely migrate to and from breeding grounds. The tunnels are a permanent solution that will play a role in species recovery and prevent the need to close this road section during annual migration. They are the first of this kind in York Region. During the road closure, access will be maintained for emergency vehicles and for all driveways/entrances. All through traffic will not be permitted. Signs will be in place to guide travellers. As with all construction projects, work may be rescheduled due to weather or other conditions. York Region will provide advance notice whenever possible. More Info: https://www.york.ca/newsroom/news/tiny-tunnels-are-large-step-towards-protecting-endangered-salamanders

Road salt has been polluting Ontario’s lakes  and drinking water since the 1970s, with Richmond Hill—on the sensitive Oak Ridges Moraine—especially impacted. Lake Wilcox salt levels have quadrupled since 1996. Despite government efforts, the issue is worsening. The Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition is a coalition of groups, pushing Ontario to take real steps to reduce the salt pollution of our freshwaters. Road salt is polluting Ontario’s freshwater, and if we don’t manage it a lot better, our lakes, rivers and some of our drinking water will become seriously contaminated. The coalition is asking all Ontario municipal councils to pass a resolution urging the Province to adopt limited liability legislation for snow and ice contractors to lower insurance costs, curb excessive salt use, and improve site safety by incentivizing adherence to best practices. Additionally, the Province is urged to bring experts together to advise it on how to better protect our environment and water from salt pollution, beyond limited liability. Take a Stand Against Salt Pollution in Ontario and Lake Wilcox! I’ve submitted a motion supporting action on salt pollution, which will be presented to Council at the Committee of the Whole on July 2 . If you share this concern, you can make a difference by emailing your support to clerks@richmondhill.ca by noon Monday June 30th. The Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition also has a petition to sign : Help fight for action on salt pollution in Ontario Regards, Councillor Carol Davidson

Richmond Hill is under increasing pressure to add more housing as affordability and demand continue to rise across York Region. However, much of our city lies atop the Oak Ridges Moraine—an environmentally sensitive landscape that filters drinking water, helps prevent flooding, and supports local ecosystems. While current laws protect the moraine from development, that limits where new housing can go. If we continue to protect the moraine, the alternative is likely building up—adding mid- or high-rise buildings in existing neighbourhoods. Answer the Quick Poll below and let us know your thoughts.

Council Meeting Wednesday June 25, 2025 at 9:30am Meeting Agenda: Revised Meeting Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Meeting Video Recap: All agenda items were approved by Council including Councillor Davidson's motion for a staff report on the feasibility of banning fireworks. Agenda Items Include: Motion - Councillor Davidson - Feasibility of banning fireworks in the City of Richmond Hill This motion directs staff to explore the feasibility of banning fireworks and report back with: Alternative celebration options (e.g. drone shows) Cost and environmental impact assessments Comparison of policies from other municipalities Complaint and enforcement analysis Health and Safety Water Stream and Play Your Court Grant Applications The purpose of this report is to seek Council approval to submit applications for funding to the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program Health and Safety Water Stream and Tennis Canada Play Your Court program, including approval of capital funding not covered by the grant should the City’s applications be successful. Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program Health and Safety Water Stream (HSWS) That, upon successful approval, Council authorize the South Richvale Valleyland Sewer Protection Project to proceed with a budget of $1,623,000, with up to $1,184,790 to be funded by the Provincial HSWS, and the remaining portion covered by appropriate City funding sources. Tennis Canada Play Your Court Program That, upon successful approval, Council authorize the MacLeod’s Landing Park Tennis Court Improvement Project to proceed with a budget of $650,000, with up to $100,000 funded by the Tennis Canada Play Your Court Program, and the remainder covered by appropriate City funding sources. Traffic Regulation Changes Due to concerns raised by residents and based on technical assessments following industry guidelines and City standards, it is recommended that changes be made to parking regulations on a number of City roads. Changes for Ward 1 Oak Ridges include: Speed Limit Reductions to 40 km/h To improve safety, speed limits will be reduced on the following streets: Bayswater Ave  – Ashfield Dr to self-terminus Milos Rd  – Bathurst St to Jefferson Sideroad New Parking Restrictions Parking changes based on safety reviews: Auraglen St  – Bloomgate Cres to Brightsview Dr Bayview Park Ln  – Bayview Ave to 30m N of Sandbanks Dr Sandbanks Dr  – Bayview Park Ln to Bayview Ridge Ct Sunridge St  – Brightsview Dr (N) to Humberland Dr Parking Regulation Removals Some streets will return to resident-only permit parking : Bayview Park Ln  – Bayview Ave to Sunset Beach Rd Park Cres  – Sandbanks Dr to Sunset Beach Rd (W) Sandbanks Dr  – Park Cres to Bayview Park Ln New Permit Parking Zones Permit parking added on: Bayview Park Ln  – 30m N of Sandbanks Dr to Sunset Beach Rd Park Cres  – East to West limits at Sunset Beach Rd Sandbanks Dr  – Bayview Ridge Ct to Park Cres Permit Parking Removal Park Cres  – East limit at Sunset Beach Rd to Sandbanks Dr Local Food and Urban Agriculture in Richmond Hill The purpose of this staff report is to provide Council with information about the City’s local food and urban agriculture initiatives and recommend Council endorsement of the York Region Food Charter Action Document. Key highlights: Community gardens will expand in 2025, including new Indigenous medicine gardens. Education programs, seed exchanges, and local food events continue. The City will keep partnering with York Region Food Network and other groups. Local food efforts support health, climate goals, and community connection. Heritage Designations recommended for Approval To designate six properties for their cultural heritage value: 1591 Elgin Mills Rd E 734 King Rd 317 Mill St 10201, 11901 & 12125 Yonge St 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.

Stay informed about water levels in your area with TRCA's real-time water level gauging website, giving you access to up-to-date information on rivers and streams across the GTA. Explore water levels in your neighbourhood at https://trcagauging.ca Use the information on this page  to help you understand and prepare for flooding if you live near Lake Wilcox.

Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting Tuesday June 24, 2025 at 1:30pm Meeting Agenda: View Meeting Agenda Watch Meeting: Meeting Video Agenda Items Include: 2024 Reserve and Reserve Fund Status The report provides an update on Richmond Hill’s financial reserves and reserve funds as of the end of 2024. The City’s reserves reached $479.85 million , reflecting strong financial management and a 5.93% increase  from the previous year. These funds ensure money is available for key needs like infrastructure, services, and emergency situations. Some key highlights: Housing Accelerator Fund Grant Reserve Fund : A new fund is being established to manage federal housing program contributions. Ontario Cannabis Legalization Implementation Reserve : Recommended for closure, with remaining funds being transferred to another reserve. Development Charges & Growth Funding : These reserves grew significantly due to increased development activity, though ongoing provincial policy changes may impact future revenue. Stormwater & Infrastructure Planning : Council is considering financing options to support long-term water infrastructure needs. Reserve Realignment : Some reserves are being adjusted to better align with financial priorities. Overall, the report emphasizes financial stability, strategic planning, and adapting to legislative changes  while ensuring Richmond Hill remains well-prepared for future community needs. L 2024 Development Charges, Cash in Lieu of Parkland and Community Benefits Charge Reserve Funds Statemen t This report provides an overview of how Richmond Hill managed funds collected from Development Charges, Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland, and Community Benefits Charges  in 2024. These funds are used to finance infrastructure and community services needed as the city grows. Key points: Richmond Hill collected $34.53 million  in development charges and spent $21.34 million  on capital projects, including roads, parks, and sanitary improvements. The Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland  fund grew by $4.77 million , with significant funds used for park revitalization projects. No new Community Benefits Charges  were collected, but $0.10 million  was spent on improvements like tennis courts. The city granted 102 exemptions  for residential units and deferred charges for a long-term care facility. Although development charge collections have generally increased, 2024 revenue was lower than forecasted  due to a weaker housing market. Richmond Hill remains compliant with provincial laws  and continues to strategically plan infrastructure investments for long-term sustainability. Stormwater Management Capital Financing Plan This report outlines Richmond Hill’s Stormwater Management Capital Financing Plan  to address long-term infrastructure needs and ensure resilience against flooding and erosion. Key points: The City requires $22.1 million  in funding for stormwater improvements. Instead of external borrowing, Richmond Hill will use internal financing  from the Community Enhancement and Economic Vitality Reserve Fund at 3.5% interest over 20 years . Repayments will start in 2026  and continue annually until 2050 , totaling approximately $31.2 million  (principal + interest). The financing will be supported by rate increases in stormwater fees . This approach provides lower costs, more flexibility, and avoids external approval delays . Stormwater infrastructure is crucial for preventing floods, maintaining water quality, and protecting the community. The plan ensures funding is available while keeping costs manageable. 2026 Tariff of Fees Update This report outlines updates to Richmond Hill’s 2026 Tariff of Fees By-law , which sets prices for city services. The annual review ensures fees remain fair, align with inflation (set at 2% for 2026 ), and support cost recovery. Key points: 1,262 fees  will be applied next year, including 15 new fees , mostly in recreation, public works, and licensing. A new $10 cap  is proposed for non-sufficient funds (NSF) payment fees, aligning with federal banking rules. Fees related to fire training, waste collection, facility rentals, and recreation programs  are adjusted to reflect market rates and operating costs. Richmond Hill expects $525,700 in additional revenue  for city operations and $45,900 for water and wastewater services  through these changes. The proposed fee updates will be reviewed by Council on July 9, 2025 , with changes effective January 1, 2026. The goal is to balance affordability while ensuring Richmond Hill can fund key community services. 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.

Access the Oak Ridges Wrap Up newsletter here: June 20th Wrap Up

For the week from Monday June 16 to Sunday June 22, 2025 🚨 Richmond Hill Crime Summary (Last 7 Days)  🚨 Overall crime is down  significantly this week. Biggest drops: Theft Under $5000 (-24) , Assaults (-21) , Fraud (-12) , and Theft of Motor Vehicle (-9) . Minor increases : Other Property Crime (+5), Attempt Murder (+1). Many categories  (e.g. Homicide, Arson, Sexual Violations) saw no change . General trend: Less crime across most areas. Notable Changes: Break and Enter - Residential  dropped from 5 to 0 (↓5) Break and Enter - Commercial  dropped from 2 to 0 (↓2) 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.)

Council Public Meeting Tuesday April 29, 2025 at 7pm Council Chambers, 225 East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill Meeting Agenda: Meeting Agenda Watch Meeting:   Meeting Video Meeting Recap: Summary Key discussions revolved around zoning bylaw amendments for 44 and 46 Bond Crescent, high-density residential development at various locations along Elgin Mills Road, and a contentious proposal for increased building height on Bayview Avenue. These applications prompted extensive feedback from city staff, council members, and residents, particularly concerning environmental impact, infrastructure strain, and community character preservation. Highlights Residents expressed concerns about increased traffic and infrastructure strain due to proposed developments. 🚗 The environmental impact of construction near wetlands was a major talking point. 🌿 Council deliberated on the balance between housing needs and preserving community character. 🏘️ Developers face challenges making projects economically viable amidst market changes. 💼 The council urged for more public engagement and transparency in the planning process. 🗣️ Key Takeaways Community involvement is crucial in shaping local developments. 🏘️ Preserving neighborhood character remains a top priority for many residents. Environmental concerns dominate discussions on developments near wetlands. 🌿 Traffic and infrastructure capacity are recurring concerns in high-density proposals. 🚦 The economic viability of housing projects is increasingly challenging developers. 💼 Overview The Council Public Meeting in Richmond Hill tackled several key development proposals, reflecting the city's growth challenges. The proposed zoning bylaw amendment for 44 and 46 Bond Crescent aimed at increasing residential lots. Residents and council discussed concerns about preserving neighborhood fabric and managing increased traffic. The session also delved into the Elgin Mills Road project, where high-density residential plans sparked discussions on traffic congestion and neighborhood compatibility. Residents highlighted their worries about infrastructural load and environmental disruptions, especially considering existing local conditions. A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to a proposal on Bayview Avenue that sought increased building height, raising environmental sustainability questions. The council and public deliberated on how to balance the pressing need for new housing with the obligation to protect Richmond Hill's natural landscapes. On the Agenda: Request for Comments – Official Plan Amendment and Revised Zoning By-law Amendment Applications – 13572 and 13586 Bayview Avenue Request for an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment to permit a 10-storey high-density residential apartment with 229 units and three levels of underground parking (309 spaces total). Development Background Original Proposal (2020): 11-storey building with 122 units (111 uph) Originally Approved (2022): 8-storey building with 103 units (218 uph) Revised in 2024: 8-storey building, 135 units (285 uph) Current Proposal (2025): 10-storey building, 229 units (483.3 uph), underground parking, and increased GFA and amenity space. Key Issues Identified Height & Density: Exceeds both general and previously approved site-specific limits. Represents a high-rise form, which is not aligned with the Neighbourhood designation of the Official Plan. Density Sought: 483.3 units/hectare, which is a 60% increase over the previously approved density. Urban Structure Conflict: High-rise buildings are meant for designated intensification areas (e.g., Richmond Hill Centre), not this location. Conflicts with the City's urban structure policies. Design Compliance: Does not comply with high-rise design standards in the Official Plan (e.g., tower floorplate size, 45-degree angular plane). Proposed floorplates (up to 2,275 sq.m) far exceed the maximum allowed (~750 sq.m). Environmental Concerns: Proximity to Wilcox-St. George Provincially Significant Wetland Complex. Need to ensure no adverse ecological impacts and review mitigation measures. TRCA and Natural Heritage evaluations are still pending. Infrastructure Feasibility: Concerns about hydrogeological feasibility of the underground parking (due to potential high water table). Underground construction impact on adjacent natural heritage features still under assessment. Parking & Transportation: Proposed reduced parking rates require review—especially since the site is not served by rapid transit and has no on-street parking. Affordable Housing: No affordable housing units proposed. Official Plan requires 25% affordability for new developments in Settlement Areas. Request for Comments – Zoning By-law Amendment Application – 44 and 46 Bond Crescent A request for comments concerning a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment application to permit a residential development to be comprised of five (5) residential building lots. A Zoning By-law Amendment application was approved by Council in 2020 to permit two (2) additional residential lots at 46 Bond Crescent. The owners of 44 and 46 Bond Crescent have since consolidated their properties and submitted the subject Zoning By-law Amendment and related draft Plan of Subdivision applications to facilitate the creation of five (5) additional lots on their land holdings. Request for Comments - Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications - 50, 54, 62, 72, 78 and 86 Elgin Mills Road West A request for comments concerning proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications to permit the construction of a seven (7) storey residential building to contain 227 apartment dwelling units, two levels of underground parking and vehicular access from Elgin Mills Road West. The applicant is seeking Council’s approval of its Official Plan Amendment application to establish a site specific amendment to permit the following: an increased building height of 7 storeys, whereas 4 storeys is permitted; and, an increased density of 2.85 Floor Space Index (FSI) (equivalent to 378.33 units per hectare), whereas a density of 50 units per hectare is permitted. 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.