Richmond Hill Council Meeting - May 13

Richmond Hill council's May 13 meeting included community announcements, recognition of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, and debate on two main motions: one asking York Region to explore a more coordinated housing and support model for adults with developmental disabilities, and another reaffirming support for the Elgin Mills Road East rail grade separation project.

Topics Discussed

1. COMMUNITY EVENTS AND AWARENESS ITEMS

Councillors highlighted several upcoming events, including Eco Family Fest on May 30 at Elgin Barrow in Town Park, the Spring Fair on May 23 from noon to 3 p.m. at Richmond Green Park, the Richmond Hill Prayer Breakfast on May 20, a life-saving seminar on May 23 at Elgin West Community Centre, and the Voices from the Hill concert on May 24 at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts.

Council also marked Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. The mayor said "between 3,500 and 3600 people in York Region live with MS," and noted the MS flag would be raised at city hall on May 13.

2. LITTER, ENVIRONMENT, AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION

Council members referenced the 7th annual Provincial Day of Action on Litter and said the city had launched a communications campaign on proper waste disposal. Remarks pointed to litter thrown from car windows, debris left on trails, and dog waste bags left behind in public spaces.

Council also recognized May 14 as Moose Hide Campaign Day, described during the meeting as an Indigenous-led movement focused on engaging men and boys to help end violence against women and children. One speaker said council has "consistently strongly stood against all forms of intimate partner violence" and called it "an epidemic in our province."

3. SUPPORT FOR ADULTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

Council unanimously backed a motion asking York Region to examine a more integrated approach to housing and supports for adults with developmental disabilities, particularly when parents or caregivers are no longer able to provide care.

Councillor Scott, who brought forward the motion, said: "What this motion is asking is fairly straightforward. Is there an opportunity to explore a more integrated model? Something that brings together housing support and opportunities for meaningful daily participation in a way that provides stability, routine, and a sense of purpose?"

Councillor Thompson supported the motion and focused on what happens after children age out of youth services, emphasizing the need for government support when parents are no longer able to provide care.

Regional Councillor Thompson said York Region should be involved because there is a real need for the region to create an integrated and supportive model for housing for people with various needs.

The discussion referred to agencies and organizations already working in the sector, including Reena, L'Arche, Autism in Mind, Home on the Hill, and Coco's Wish Foundation.

4. ELGIN MILLS ROAD EAST RAIL GRADE SEPARATION

Council also unanimously approved a motion reaffirming support for the Elgin Mills Road East rail grade separation project and urging York Region not to delay or reduce funding.

Councillor Bitar said the project is "high priority" for Richmond Hill and added that council expected York Region would not be "potentially delaying the construction or in any form of shape or reducing the capital dollars to go to this project."

Regional Councillor Deb Schulte said "the bridge infrastructure is not just going to be an nice to have, it's going to be an absolute imperative."

Another speaker noted that "the earliest time" construction could begin was 2028, adding that this should be "on the record." Council's discussion also referenced traffic congestion, blocked crossings, emergency access concerns, CN rail requirements, and flood mitigation approvals.

5. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ITEM

A council member also voiced support for bringing the Defense, Security and Resilience Bank to Toronto. The mayor said the initiative "is projected to create about 3,500 highly skilled jobs in particularly in areas like finance and defense manufacturing."

Motions

Passed unanimously: - Motion requesting York Region to explore an integrated and supportive model for housing and care for adults with developmental disabilities - Motion reaffirming support for the Elgin Mills Road East rail grade separation project and urging York Region to maintain funding and timeline

Attendees

The following members were identified in the meeting notes provided:

• Councillor Thompson
• Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor Godwin
• Regional Councillor Chan
• Councillor Tweed
• Councillor Cilevitz