Crosswalk
The City of Richmond Hill’s Committee of the Whole met on December 3, 2025, moving forward on a series of infrastructure, planning, and community-focused initiatives during a brisk morning meeting that concluded just before 11 a.m.
Holiday Events and Community Reflections
Mayor David West opened the meeting by highlighting the city’s annual Merry Marketplace at Richmond Green, praising staff for the festive setup. He also clarified the timing of holiday lighting installations along Yonge Street, noting that Christmas decorations go up only after Remembrance Day to respect veterans’ banner displays. Other councillors spoke on international events and community observances, including recognizing efforts to end violence against women and mourning the victims of a tragic fire in Hong Kong.
Soccer Club Seeks Use of Lake Wilcox Boathouse
A delegation from Azeem Amir, President of the International Football School of Excellence, proposed using the Lake Wilcox Boathouse as a shared clubhouse for local youth soccer programs. Amir emphasized the organization’s community partnerships and interest in securing a permanent home.
Council later received the staff report on the boathouse and approved continued licensing of the facility to the Richmond Hill Canoe Club for boating programs, rentals, and equipment storage. Correspondence from Amir was also officially received.
Major Infrastructure Repair Funding Approved
Council approved funding sources for emergency repairs on West Beaver Creek Road, allocating over $6 million from various reserve funds, with instructions to replenish the reserves using year-end surpluses where possible.
City Endorses Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy
In a significant move toward sustainability, Council endorsed the 2025 Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy, along with several related by-law amendments governing EV parking, use of parks, and administrative penalties. The strategy is expected to guide future expansion of the city’s charging network and support Richmond Hill’s climate goals.
Development Applications Move Forward
Three zoning applications—covering properties at 112 Elgin Mills Road West, 599 Sunset Beach Road, and 99 Lucas Street—were approved unanimously. The changes support new residential developments, updates to environmental protection zoning, and future subdivision planning. Draft by-laws will proceed to upcoming Council meetings for enactment.
City to Send Delegation on Economic Mission to Germany
Council authorized a 2026 investment attraction mission to Germany, approving $25,000 in funding and permitting the Mayor and two Economic Development staff to attend. The mission aims to strengthen international partnerships and draw new business investment to Richmond Hill.
Veterans’ Commemorative Crosswalk Approved for 2026
A motion from Councillor Thompson to create Richmond Hill’s first commemorative crosswalk honouring Canadian veterans passed unanimously. The design—featuring red and white stripes, a soldier’s silhouette, and the phrase “Lest We Forget”—will be installed on the west side of Yonge Street at Wright Street in time for the 2026 Remembrance Day Parade. The initiative will be funded with $12,000 from the Community Enhancement and Economic Vitality Reserve Fund. Staff were also directed to investigate additional commemorative crosswalk opportunities along Yonge Street.
Meeting Adjourned
With no emergency matters raised, the Committee adjourned at 10:53 a.m. The next steps for approved items will proceed to Council for final consideration where required.