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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.

Speeding in residential areas, especially near schools, parks, and senior centres, is a growing concern for many communities. In Ontario, Community Safety Zones  are specially designated areas where enhanced enforcement and signage aim to protect our most vulnerable road users. One tool being used in these zones is automated speed cameras , which ticket drivers who exceed posted limits. While Richmond Hill has not installed its own ASE cameras yet, York Region has deployed 40+ cameras in Community Safety Zones throughout the region, including in Richmond Hill. Learn more: york.ca/TrafficCameraEnforcement How do you feel about this approach? We want to hear from you. Please take a moment to answer this quick poll and share your thoughts on the use of speed cameras in Community Safety Zones.

What is the Oak Ridges Local Centre (ORLC)? The Oak Ridges Local Centre is a planned growth area located along Yonge Street between Bloomington Road and Old Colony Road , and along King Road east of Parker Avenue . It’s envisioned as a walkable, mixed-use hub  with new homes, shops, and services — all designed to respect and reflect the unique character of the Oak Ridges community. How the Province Influences Richmond Hill’s Official Plan The Province of Ontario  sets the overall framework for how communities grow through provincial policies on housing, transit, the environment, and more. Richmond Hill’s Official Plan — including amendments like the one for Oak Ridges — must align with these provincial priorities  and is subject to provincial review and approval. What Does Richmond Hill’s Official Plan Do? The City’s Official Plan outlines: A long-term vision for development Where and how growth will occur Planning for municipal services and infrastructure Protection of natural areas and ecosystems Strategies to guide implementation over time Status of the Oak Ridges Local Centre Official Plan Amendment Official Plan Amendment 18.8  for the ORLC has been adopted by Richmond Hill Council , but is currently under appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) . 🔗 Learn more at: richmondhill.ca/OfficialPlanUpdate Maximum Building Heights for Oak Ridges Local Centre (Yellow * - maximum building height shall be 8 storeys for development abutting Yonge Street everywhere else maximum building height is 6 storeys) Density Allocation for Oak Ridges Local Centre Let's Plan Our Future Together! Watch this video to learn more about how the Official Plan Update impacts the future of your city and why you should get involved.

Committee of the Whole Meeting Wednesday June 18, 2025 at 9:30am Meeting Agenda: Revised Meeting Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Meeting Video Recap: All items were moved to next week's Council Meeting. The majority of the discussion was around two of the proposed heritage properties. Council unanimously supported Councillor Davidson's fireworks motion. 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.

Great news!  A recent update to the York Region District School Board's Finance and Property Standing Committee confirms that construction of the Dr. Bette Stephenson Secondary School in Oak Ridges is set to begin in July 2025 . The school is still on track to open its doors in September 2027. More info: Construction Projects: New Elementary and Secondary Schools Please contact the York Region District School Board if you have any questions or concerns. July 16, 2024 Since taking on the role of your Councillor, I have been unwavering in my efforts to advocate for a high school in Oak Ridges. I have had several meetings with the Director of Education to expedite the construction of this school. Therefore, I am delighted to finally witness some tangible progress. Oak Ridges has been promised a secondary school for so long and it's finally being built. A Site Plan Application have been submitted to the City by the York Region District School Board (YRDSB) to build the Dr. Bette Stephenson Secondary School in Oak Ridges.   YRDSB requested a site plan amendment to convert the existing adult learning center into a public secondary school with a 5,100 square meter addition to the existing building.   Now the school won't go up overnight. According to the YRDSB website  the school is proposed to open September 2027. For more information please email planning.services@yrdsb.ca You can take a sneak peak at the proposed site and elevation plans below.

Council Public Meeting Tuesday June 24, 2025 at 7pm Meeting Agenda: Meeting Agenda Watch Meeting:   City's YouTube  or Livestream On the Agenda: Request for Comments - Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project (Neighbourhood, including the North Leslie Secondary Plan and West Gormley Secondary Plan Areas, Employment Lands, Greenway System Richmond Hill is updating its zoning rules for various parts of the city—including neighbourhoods, employment lands, green spaces, and more—to match the city’s updated Official Plan and provincial rules. This is a draft  proposal, and the city is asking for feedback from the public and Council . 🗺️ Areas Affected The zoning changes apply to: Neighbourhoods  (including North Leslie and West Gormley) Greenway System  (protected natural lands) Employment Lands  (business parks and industrial areas) Leslie Street Institutional Area Utility Corridors  (like pipelines and railway lines) 🎯 Why Now? Ontario law says zoning by-laws must be updated within 3 years of updating an Official Plan. Richmond Hill is updating its Official Plan, so it must also update zoning to match. The city also received federal funding (Housing Accelerator Fund) to speed up housing development—including more affordable homes. 🧭 What’s Included in the Draft Zoning? A complete reorganization of zoning categories and rules. Specific zones for residential, commercial, institutional, environmental, and employment areas. Adjustments to reflect changes in provincial planning policies (e.g., new limits on what’s allowed in employment zones). Updated rules for infill development, parking, landscaping, and mixed-use buildings. 📣 What Have Residents Said? At public open houses, residents raised concerns about: How zoning will impact parking , short-term rentals , and driveways . Protecting neighbourhood character amid infill housing  (e.g., lot sizes, building height). More community amenities  (e.g., parks, daycares, places of worship). Ensuring natural features  are protected. Supporting aging in place  (like allowing small-scale seniors housing). 🛠️ Next Steps City staff will collect and review comments from the public and Council. Further refinements will be made to the draft zoning by-law. A finalized version will be presented at a future meeting. 💵 Funding Note This project is tied to federal housing funding, so Richmond Hill must meet certain deadlines and housing targets to continue receiving money. 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.

For the week from Monday June 9 to Sunday June 15, 2025 🚨 Richmond Hill Weekly Crime Update  🚨 Good news: Assaults, fraud, and thefts are down significantly  this week! 👏 🔻 Assaults: -18 🔻 Theft Under $5000: -17 🔻 Fraud: -17 But heads up: 🔺 Motor Vehicle Thefts & Drug Offences are up slightly. We're making progress, but there's more to do. 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.)

Over the winter I worked with the Director of Community Standards to look at dedicated resources to patrol Lake Wilcox Park on the weekends during the busy Summer months. I’m pleased to say that a Community Standards Officer will be officially assigned to Lake Wilcox Park starting June 21, including statutory holidays. The staff will be focused on the following issues proactively: Illegal BBQ’s Unauthorized large groups (25 or more) Unpermitted tents Fishing off the boardwalk E-scooters being used in the park Illegal parking Noise Littering Assisting Park visitors with paid parking issues and addressing general concerns throughout the day Park Officers will be present in the park on a staggered schedule between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., based on operational needs. Before park closure, staff—sometimes accompanied by York Regional Police (YRP)—will clear the park of users and vehicles after 11:30 p.m. YRP and Vaughan Animal Services will also conduct patrols when resources allow during the summer. Park Officers will wear high-visibility clothing for easy identification. Residents can report park-related issues by calling the City’s After-Hours Line at 905-771-5458, with a goal of responding within one hour. Please note the York Regional Police (YRP) is responsible for enforcement of the lake. Contact them at 1-866-876-5423 for information on boating restrictions in a non-emergency.

Access the complete Oak Ridges Wrap Up newsletter here: June 13th Wrap Up Here's a quick overview of this week's Wrap Up: 🎆 Fireworks Motion Community Concerns:  In response to resident complaints and recent fire incidents, Councillor Davidson introduced a motion to explore a fireworks ban . What’s Being Studied:  Alternatives like drone shows, environmental impact, policy comparisons, and enforcement data. 🌳 Lake Wilcox Park Patrols New Enforcement Measures:  Starting June 21, a dedicated Community Standards Officer will patrol weekends and holidays to address BBQs, littering, large gatherings, e-scooters, and more. Support from YRP and Animal Services  when available. 🏞 Bond Lake Concerns Ongoing Issues:  Garbage, noise, and fires persist. The TRCA (who manages the land) is actively monitoring and responding. Next Steps:  A meeting with Mayor West and TRCA is scheduled to push for stronger enforcement. 📊 Quick Polls & Feedback Fireworks Ban Poll Results:  82% oppose  a ban, 18% support one. New Poll:  Residents asked to weigh in on Automated Speed Enforcement near schools. 🛴 E-bike & Scooter Regulations Reminder:  E-bikes not allowed on sidewalks. Richmond Hill’s Micromobility Strategy  update is coming this fall. 🐶 Pet By-law Changes New Rules (Effective June 1, 2025): Mandatory cat licensing Updated dangerous dog regulations Limit of 7 pets per household (max 3 dogs, 4 cats) 🗳 Council Updates Recent Approvals: 2025 tax levy: $152.1M (3.19% increase) Council Public Meetings now start at 6pm for better resident access. 📅 Upcoming Events June 18:  Committee of the Whole meeting + Springtime Pollinator Walk June 21:  Curbside Giveaway Day + Autism Walkathon at Richmond Green 🏳️‍🌈 Community Highlights Pride Month & CHATS Flag-Raising:  Celebrating inclusivity and senior support. New Business:  Welcome to Richmond Hill Jiu-Jitsu on King Rd! 💡 Business Innovation CLIC (Centre for Local Innovation and Collaboration):  Open call for entrepreneurs to join the latest cohort — apply by August 15.

Speeding in community safety zones—especially near schools—puts pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers at risk.  To help reduce speeding, many municipalities use Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras in high-risk areas. These cameras automatically ticket vehicles that exceed the speed limit, with fines based on how fast they were going. In Ontario, all ASE fines are set by the Province, and legislation states that all revenue must be reinvested in public safety improvements. While Richmond Hill has not installed its own ASE cameras yet , York Region has deployed 40+ cameras throughout the region, including in Richmond Hill. Learn more: york.ca/TrafficCameraEnforcement We’re curious to know how this program has impacted local drivers. Take the quick poll. 2025 Year to Date York Regional Police Road Safety Trend Dashboard - All York Region Subscribe to the Oak Ridges Wrap Up! Get the latest news and events for Oak Ridges and Richmond Hill delivered right to your inbox every Friday.

Council Public Meeting Tuesday June 10, 2025 at 7pm Council Chambers, 225 East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill Meeting Agenda: Revised Meeting Agenda Watch Meeting:   Meeting Video Recap: 1. 11 Headon Gate – Private School Proposal Request:  Rezone a commercial property to legalize an existing private school. Concerns: Loss of commercial space. School using adjacent public park (Cordave Park). Traffic and lack of recreation space. Clarification:  No expansion planned; park remains public. 2. Zero Laurier Avenue – Lot Severance Request:  Rezone to allow 2 single-detached homes. Concerns:  Residents raised grading and retaining wall issues. Staff Response:  Will be reviewed during permitting. 3. 13564/13580 Yonge St & 40 Coons Rd – 8-Storey Condo & Townhomes Proposal: 272 condo units, 12 townhomes, 1 single-detached home. 8-storey building with underground parking. Concerns: Height/density (seen as 9 storeys), traffic on Coons Rd. Environmental risks (flooding, underground streams). Incompatibility with surrounding low-rise homes. Lack of affordable housing, amenities, or retail. Council & Public Response:  Strong opposition from residents and Councillor Davidson. 📌 Outcome All feedback was referred back to staff for further study. Future decisions will follow after additional reports and consultations. 🧾 Agenda Items Request for Comments – Revised Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications - 13564 and 13580 Yonge Street and 40 Coon's Road The property owner (Mason Sanglakhi and 2101071 Ontario Inc.) is asking the City to approve changes to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to allow for a new mixed-use residential development that includes: An 8-storey apartment building (272 units) 12 townhouses 1 single-detached home 2 levels of underground parking and surface parking (371 spaces) Full access from Coon's Rd. as well as a right-in, right-out access from Yonge St. 📍 Where Is This? The site is located at the southwest corner of Yonge Street and Coon’s Road, near a low-density residential area and within the Oak Ridges Local Centre growth area. 🚧 Key Concerns Raised in the Past Traffic and congestion Building height and size Shadows cast on neighbouring homes Underground parking in a sensitive environmental area 🏛️  What the City Is Looking At City planning staff are reviewing: Whether the project fits with local plans and zoning, especially regarding: Building height (proposed 8 storeys exceeds current 6-storey max) Density (exceeds 2.0 FSI allowed in part of the site). Use of the ground floor (should include community or retail uses along Yonge Street). Is not located within proximity of a Major Transit Station Area (MTSA). Additional review is required to determine whether the proposed building should be considered eight (8) or nine (9) storeys in height, due to the inclusion of amenity and storage areas above the eighth storey in addition to a proposed mechanical penthouse. If the building is deemed to be greater than eight (8) storeys in height, it would be classified as a high-rise building which has additional planning requirements. Compatibility with the surrounding low-rise neighbourhood. Whether the affordable housing target (25%) is being met (currently only 10.5% proposed). Request for Comments – Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications – 11 Headdon Gate The property owner (Cor-Lots Developments Ltd.) is asking the City for permission to officially allow a private school (Prestige School) to operate at 11 Headdon Gate. 🏫 Background Prestige School has been operating there fully since around 2020. During renovations, the City realized the school didn’t meet zoning rules. As a result, the owner is applying for changes to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to make the use legal. 🗺️ Key Details No new buildings are being proposed—just a change in land use permissions. The building is one storey with 44 parking spots. The school is located near homes, a park (Cordave Parkette), and commercial plaza. Request for Comments – Zoning By-law Amendment Application - 0 Laurier Avenue The property owner (13028348 Canada Inc.) is asking the City for permission to split a vacant lot into two lots and build two single-family homes at 0 Laurier Avenue (just east of Bathurst Street in Richmond Hill). Right now, the land is zoned for multiple residential use, but the owner wants to rezone it to allow two single-detached homes with slightly smaller lot sizes and higher lot coverage than currently allowed. The area is part of the Hughey West Infill Study, a City-approved plan to guide responsible growth in this neighbourhood. 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.

Council Meeting Wednesday June 11, 2025 at 9:30am Meeting Agenda: Meeting Agenda Watch Council Meeting: Meeting Video ✅ Council Decisions at a Glance All agenda items were approved by Council including the 2025 tax levy of $152.1M, including a 3.19% increase and new discounts for rental housing. Also Councillor Davidson's motion to have Council Public Meetings will begin at 6:00pm to support better resident participation. Agenda Items Include: Economic Development Mission to Hannover Messe Richmond Hill’s Economic Mission to Hannover Messe – Summary Purpose : Promote Richmond Hill internationally to attract investment and business growth. Event : Attended Hannover Messe 2025 , the world’s largest industrial tech trade show. Canada was the featured country. Key Wins : Met with 15 potential investors; 8 more leads to follow up. Built partnerships with German businesses, trade groups, and government agencies. Promoted Richmond Hill’s innovation strengths (e.g. SBEC, CLIC). Supported local companies at the show— Maple Advanced Robotics  won a top award. Cost : $27,100 for three delegates, with funding support from York Region  and CanExport . Takeaway : Richmond Hill is gaining global interest, but ongoing efforts are needed to build its international reputation and attract investment. 2025 Final Levy By-Law and Tax Rat es 2025 Property Tax Highlights – Richmond Hill Total Levy : $152.1M (includes 3.19% increase + $12.9M for infrastructure) Tax Due Dates : Residential : Aug 1 & Oct 1 (Sep 2 if postal strike) Commercial/Industrial : Oct 1 & Nov 3 New Discounts & Changes : 35% tax discount for new rental buildings Removed  tax breaks for vacant commercial/industrial land Updated Tax Deferral Program  for low-income seniors (GIS-based) Mail Disruption Ready : City can adjust due dates if postal service is affected Member Motion - Councillor Davidson - Council Public Meeting Start Times Public meetings let residents voice concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback on planning applications and zoning changes. Lengthy meetings with packed agendas can stretch late into the evening, making it harder for residents to participate and adding strain on Richmond Hill staff and attendees. The motion requests that starting September 1, 2025, these meetings will begin earlier—at 6:00pm. 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.