Summary:

High-Level Summary:

The Richmond Hill city council meeting, chaired by Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan on behalf of Mayor West, focused on various community issues such as transit initiatives, traffic calming, and local events. Key participants included Councilors Karen Cilevitz, Simon Tsung Cheung, Michael Schu, and Councilor Davidson, as well as Tomas Henteleff from York Region Transit, who presented on 2025 transit improvements.

Important Topics Discussed:

1. Land Acknowledgement and Truth and Reconciliation: Deputy Mayor Chan highlighted the importance of acknowledging traditional First Nations lands and the upcoming National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. He noted, "Mayor West and many of my Council colleagues were present for the flag raising, particularly Every Child Matters," emphasizing community solidarity and awareness.

2. Public Transit and York Region Transit Initiatives (File No: 13.1): Tomas Henteleff from YRT discussed the 2025 Transit initiatives, including service improvements and consultations aimed at enhancing daily commutes and accessibility. He emphasized, "We continue to plan for all the electric buses... about 180 up until 2028," highlighting a shift towards sustainable transit solutions.

3. Traffic Calming Measures (File Nos: 15.2.2 and 15.2.3): Councilors discussed addressing local traffic concerns, with Councilor Davidson inviting residents to consultative sessions stating, "Please come out at 6:30 and talk to staff and talk to me, and we can talk traffic." These sessions are set to occur in various wards.

4. Local Events and Community Engagements: Upcoming community events were highlighted, such as Councilor Cilevitz's food drive on September 28th. These events aim to foster community involvement in environmental and anti-poverty efforts, respectively.

5. Anti-Poverty Efforts and Food Security: Councilor Karen Cilevitz discussed an important food drive supporting the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank, urging, "We ask that you please bring both non-perishable goods as well as monetary donations if you can afford it," reflecting on the community's role in supporting over 3,000 individuals monthly.

Opportunities to Provide Input:

• Traffic Calming Measures: Residents are encouraged to participate in traffic consultation sessions across various wards to voice their concerns and suggestions.
• York Region Transit Annual Plan: Stakeholders and the public can provide feedback on the 2025 transit plan during upcoming consultations, ensuring resident feedback is incorporated into final proposals.

Motions Passed, Rejected, or Deferred:

• Adoption of Agenda: Moved by Councilor Karen Cilevitz, seconded by Councilor Michael Schu. Outcome: Carried unanimously.
• Adoption of Previous Council Meeting Minutes (September 11, 2024): Moved by Councilor Karen Cilevitz, seconded by Councilor Simon Tsung Cheung. Outcome: Carried unanimously.
• Adoption of the Remainder of the Agenda Items (excluding 15.3, 15.2.2, and 15.2.3): Moved by Councilor Simon Tsung Cheung, seconded by Councilor Karen Cilevitz. Outcome: Carried unanimously.
• Item 15.3 (due to a delegation): Deferred.
• Items 15.2.2 and 15.2.3 (Traffic calming measures): Pulled for further discussion.

Follow-Up Actions or Next Steps:

• Ensure continued community engagement through traffic calming sessions and public consultations for the 2025 YRT annual plan.
• Finalize details regarding postponed Item 15.3 and readdress the topic in a future council meeting.

Councillors Present:

1. Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan
2. Councilor Karen Cilevitz
3. Councilor Simon Tsung Cheung
4. Councilor Michael Schu
5. Councilor Davidson

Verified Councillors: