Greetings!

Welcome to my May E-newsletter! 

This month's edition is full of interesting municipal information as well as many events scheduled to take place in Ward 5 and across the city:

 • Local events and interesting places to visit 

 • All Council, and Committee meeting dates for the month

 • Latest news and updates 

 • A peek into my daily travels as I work on your behalf for our Ward and city

 • Things to do in Ward 5 and beyond including Notable Local Events

My monthly E-newsletter is delivered directly to your inbox, and is also uploaded to my Councillor website & social media pages containing all your daily & ongoing Ward 5 and greater Richmond Hill content:

Facebook:http://facebook.com/karencilevitz

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/councillor_cilevitz

Should you wish to unsubscribe from the monthly electronic delivery, please click on the safe "Unsubscribe" link located at the bottom of the newsletter. 

Thank you for being my partner in all Ward 5 & city activities for the past 12 years, it is my pleasure to serve all Ward 5 residents!

Here’s to Spring and all things warm and sunny, with best wishes for an enjoyable upcoming Victoria Day long weekend!

Best regards,

Karen 



Email: karen.cilevitz@richmondhill.ca

Call/Text: 416.806.7582



Council and Committee Meetings - May 2026

Official Plan Update Committee: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (1:30 pm - 4:00 pm)

Committee of the Whole: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)

Budget Committee of the Whole: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 (1:30 pm - 4:00 pm)

Council Meeting: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)

Audit Committee: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (1:30 pm - 4:00 pm)

Committee of the Whole: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)

Committee of Adjustment: Thursday, May 21, 2026 (7:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

Council Meeting: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)

Join us for another evening of vocal musical magic as Councillor Cilevitz once again presents Voices From The Hill - A Songs from The Hill Production, May 24th at 7:00 pm, in the Lexus Richmond Hill Hall at the Richmond Hill Centre For The Performing Arts (poster at back)

If weather permits, we will also have the use of the adjoining outdoor piazza for extra seating and enjoyment! 

You won't want to miss the melodious sounds of York Region's very own Chorus York choir, as well as the a capella quartet stylings of Beverley Street Group. 

  •  Admission is free, all ages

  •  INDOOR SPACE IS LIMITED - Arrive early to secure yours and avoid disappointment!



Donations for both of our charity beneficiaries of non-perishable food items and/or cash are welcome evening-of -- All monetary proceeds raised after event-costs go directly to support the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank and 360Kids.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and thank you to our generous sponsors for their support and participation!

Songs from The Hill:

https://www.songsfromthehill.com/

Chorus York:

https://www.chorusyork.ca/about-us/

Beverley Street Group:

https://beverleystreetgroup.com/

Richmond Hill Community Food Bank:

https://www.richmondhillcommunityfoodbank.ca/

360Kids:

https://www.360kids.ca/

YRT service changes as of Sunday, April 26, 2026:

Schedule and route adjustments will be made to various routes to match customer demand, including: 

  •  On‑Request Newmarket Local will be consolidated into On‑Request North‑Central. This change will provide travellers with expanded service, including seven‑day‑a‑week availability and extended morning and evening hours

  •  On‑Request Stouffville weekend service will be introduced, operating Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays/holidays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

  •  Routes 50 – Queensway and 51 – Keswick will be adjusted to operate along John Dallimore Drive, Dovedale Drive and Woodbine Avenue. Service is being relocated from the Keswick Marketplace property to public roads due to redevelopment. The Marketplace will still be accessible from Glenwoods Avenue, Woodbine Avenue and Dovedale Drive

  •  Routes 320 – Jane Express and 360 – Vaughan Mills/Wonderland schedules will be adjusted to match Vaughan Mills Mall and Canada’s Wonderland business hours

  •  Frequency and schedule adjustments on several routes

For more information, please visit:

http://www.yrt.ca/servicechanges

Bathurst Street Improvements



Over the next couple of years, Bathurst Street between Highway 7 & Major Mackenzie will be undergoing major road widening and construction work as York Region begins its improvements to this major regional road to accommodate growth; improve infrastructure; and provide more travel options.  This major road improvement project is led by York Region and is part of the 10-Year Roads and Transit Growth Capital Construction Program approved by Regional Council.

Impacts

 • During construction, residents will see trucks and workers and probably experience temporary increases in noise levels while construction on this major project is underway 

 • Work will take place during the daytime as per in-p; through construction, York Region will inform residents and businesses of any nighttime/after hours work, should it be required 

 • Lane reductions may be required during construction 

As with all construction projects, work may be rescheduled due to weather or to accommodate other work underway in the area. York Region will provide advance notice to residents and businesses whenever possible. 

For any questions/concerns about these projects, please contact: 

 • Salim Alibhai, Director of Capital Planning and Delivery - York Region, at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75229 

Or 

Via email at:

salim.alibhai@york.ca 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as the Region continues to improve and upgrade local infrastructure. 

For all your necessary information regarding this project:

https://www.york.ca/newsroom/campaigns-projects/bathurst-street-improvements

MEMO TO: Residents of Baif Boulevard

SUBJECT: Installation of Traffic Calming Measures on Baif Boulevard from Yonge Street to Springhead Gardens

Please be advised that the City will be installing traffic calming measures on Baif Boulevard from Yonge Street to Springhead Gardens, to provide additional traffic safety measures for all Richmond Hill road users.

These traffic safety measures were developed using engineering judgment and evidence-based technical analysis based on Richmond Hill’s Council-approved Traffic Safety and Operations Strategy (TSOS).

The traffic calming measures that are being implemented include the following:

• Speed cushions; and

• Tiger tail and ladder crossings

These measures and any required signage will be installed by end of June 2026, weather conditions permitting. 

The traffic calming measures are illustrated in the attached images.

❓Should you have any questions regarding these measures, please contact our Traffic Safety and Operations group at:

traffic.inquiries@richmondhill.ca

✅ For all your traffic-related information:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/traffic.aspx

Enbridge Rooftop Thermal Imaging Program 

Enbridge Gas works with MyHEAT to roll out the Rooftop Thermal Imaging program, aimed at helping homeowners in Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Burlington, and Markham assess and reduce heat loss in their homes. 

Using advanced aerial infrared technology, MyHEAT captures rooftop thermal imagery to pinpoint areas where heat might be escaping, providing customers with valuable insights into their home’s energy efficiency. 

This service is completely FREE and offers a personalized heat loss map and rating, enabling homeowners to compare their energy performance with similar homes and take corrective measures like improving insulation and air sealing.

A key part of the broader energy conservation efforts of Enbridge Gas, this initiative connects customers to various rebates and efficiency programs designed to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance home comfort. 

The program and license for this project has been renewed and extended for 1 year until February 28, 2027. 

For more detailed information to take advantage of this initiative and to access the free home heat loss report, please visit:

https://enbridgegas.com/heat-map

Explore the York Regional Forest 

The York Regional Forest, spanning over 2,600 hectares with 22 public tracts, offers free access every day of the year. 

With over 150 kilometres of scenic trails, including almost 7 kilometres that are accessible to wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive devices, there’s something for everyone to enjoy including:

  •  Biking (leisure, fat tire and mountain)

  •  Dog walking

  •  Horseback riding

  •  Nature appreciation  

  •  Snowshoeing

  •  Walking/hiking 

Discover all the Forest has to offer in the Everyday Guide:

https://www.york.ca/media/126231

Website: https://www.york.ca/environment/forests/york-regional-forest

Emergency Preparedness: Be Prepared, Not Scared !

By definition, emergencies happen when we don't expect them, and often when families are not together. 

Suddenly, you need to think about your kids at school or elderly parents across town. If phones don't work, or some neighbourhoods aren't accessible, what will you do?

While governments at all levels are working hard to keep Canada safe, everyone has a role to play in being prepared for an emergency. There are many things that you and your family can do to prepare in advance.

Richmond Hill has an Emergency Plan in case there’s a disaster or emergency in our community:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/Richmond-Hill-Emergency-Plan.aspx

Visit the city’s RH Fire & Emergency Services webpage for all your Emergency Preparedness information:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/Fire-and-Emergency-Services-Emergency-Preparedness.aspx

To learn more:

https://www.york.ca/newsroom/campaigns-projects/circular-economy

WANT NO JUNK MAIL?

• Simply click on the image above
• Copy/Paste
• Print
• Tape securely to your mailbox/supermailbox door
• Voila - No Junk Mail! 

Garbage and Recycling at your Home:
https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/Garbage-and-Recycling-at-Your-Home.aspx

Garbage and Recycling at your Building:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/Garbage-and-Recycling-at-Your-Building.aspx

Blue Box Program Changes:

As of January 1, 2026, Circular Materials manages all residential recycling in Ontario, including Richmond Hill.

Your collection day and blue box remain the same, but recycling customer service inquiries (i.e. missed collections, blue box replacements) must now be directed to Miller Waste instead of the City. 

You can contact them at 1-855-752-3762 

or 

Email: area10@millerwaste.ca

Yard Waste



Yard waste includes leaves, pine cones, fallen fruit, tree/shrub clippings, weeds, flowers, pumpkins, clean straw and dried corn stalks. Soil, sod and grass clippings are NOT ACCEPTED by the city's waste management collectors. 

Please do not rake or blow leaves onto the road. Bag or bin them and place them at the curb for collection. 

See all your Collection guidelines below:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/living-here/Yard-Waste.aspx

With thanks to Nancy Marchese, Founder - Breakthrough Autism, located at 519-16th Avenue in Richmond Hill, for her excellent presentation at Council regarding Autism Awareness and, celebrating April as Autism Awareness Month - April 8, 2026

With Richmond Hill artist, William Ho, in front of his “One Heart Beat” original work which is located in the antechamber to Council Chambers, following his presentation to Council this morning regarding the possibility of installing a "One Heart Beat" public art statue in Richmond Hill - April 8, 2026

Connecting the Community Saturday at Delmanor Elgin Mills - Saturday, April 25, 2026

Launch event for Coco’s Wish-Supporting Families with Autism in Richmond Hill and York Region - April 28, 2026

Visit to Richmond Hill’s The Steam Project’s location for a tour of their amazing facility - April 28, 2026

Calling all teens in Richmond Hill! 

Want your voice heard? Have ideas that could make a real impact? 

Apply to join the Youth Action Committee (YAC) for the 2026–2027 school year and help shape programs for youth in your community!

Apply by MAY 22:

RichmondHill.ca/YAC

Planning Sunny Days at Lake Wilcox? 

We’ve got you covered! Richmond Hill residents can get a FREE 2026 Lake Wilcox parking permit (one per household, some exceptions apply).

Please Note: Pay parking at Lake Wilcox Park is in effect from April 1 to September 30 every year. 

To obtain your Lake Wilcox Parking Permit: https://richmondhill.aimsparking.com/

Help us make Richmond Hill more Bird Friendly - Join the Bird Team! 

To find out more, please click here:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/learn-more/birds.aspx

The Richmond Hill Studio Tour returns in 2026 alongside Doors Open - Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10 am–4 pm

For over 20 years, the City has offered the Studio Tour as part of its commitment to support local artists, to now complementing Doors Open Richmond Hill - This combined free and open to the public event gives our residents and visitors the opportunity to tour local studios; meet artists; and visit Richmond Hill landmarks, interacting and witnessing the remarkable Arts & Culture offered in our city. 

✅ For all your Studio Tours information:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/things-to-do/studio-tour.aspx

✅ For all your Open Doors information:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/learn-more/Doors-Open-Richmond-Hill.aspx

Richmond Hill Passport to Culture



Richmond Hill Passport to Culture is a year-long cultural adventure inviting residents and visitors to explore Richmond Hill’s arts, heritage, and culture scene. 

From galleries and festivals to hidden gems and the David Dunlap Observatory, participants collect digital stamps by visiting cultural sites and events across the city. 

Complete your passport for a chance to win a City of Richmond Hill Cultural Prize Pack and discover just how much culture there is to explore in Richmond Hill!

How it works: 

• Visit a participating site, event, or program.

• Scan the QR code on-site using your phone.

• Collect your stamp instantly.

• Plan your Culture Adventure: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1yaCKkfkZsygh7u97eMX_P0pv_oTIQpY&usp=sharing (On PC Only)



• Complete your passport by DECEMBER 1, 2026 to be eligible to win!

Start your Passport to Culture here:

https://www.passporttoculture.ca/login

Browse Our Summer Camps

Start browsing & building your wish list now and get your child(ren) set for an unforgettable summer adventure, designed to help you quickly find the information you need all in one place and to learn more about what makes our camps such a great experience for kids.

To find the perfect city-run camp for your child/ren, or to be placed on a wait list, click here

June is Seniors Month!

Richmond Hill offers a wide variety of programs for adults 55 and older from sports to fitness, technology to arts and more - You can choose to participate in drop-in programs and/or our programs that require registration.

For all your Adults 55+ programs and related info:

Summer Company Intake at SBEC Now Open! 

Know of a full-time student aged 15-29 that wants help to fund and run their own business this summer? 

Richmond Hill’s Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) can help!

Encourage them to apply to our Summer Company program where they can get training, mentoring and a grant of up to $3,000 to fund their summer business.

Applications are due May 13th - Click here to apply!

For all your SBEC Seminars, Events & Webinars:
https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/business/SBEC-Seminars-and-Events.aspx

Shop Local - Support your local small businesses in Richmond Hill:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/shop-local.aspx

DDO Astronomy Family Nights - May the Fourth be with You!

Date: Saturday, May 2nd

Time: 8:30 pm

Location: David Dunlap Observatory, 123 Hillsview Drive, Richmond Hill



To register, please click here

Celebrating Science at the David Dunlap Observatory

Date: Saturday, May 30

Time: 9-11 pm

Location: David Dunlap Observatory, 123 Hillsview Drive, Richmond Hill



To register, please click here

For all RH DDO programs and special events:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/learn-more/ddo-programs.aspx#Astronomy-Family-Nights

Seniors Living Well 

Click here to Register for May & June programs

We are very lucky to have two Richmond Hill Public Library branches located in Ward 5

Besides studying and reading books, you can also attend the numerous events hosted in both the Central and Richvale branches throughout the year.

The Library's events are for all ages, from baby to adult!

Healthy Yards

Richmond Hill’s Healthy Yards Program provides residents with guidance and resources to create beautiful, sustainable gardens that support the natural environment.

For all your Healthy Yards information: https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/learn-more/Trees-and-Yards-Healthy-Yards.aspx?_mid_=284

Increase Biodiversity in Your Yard

The Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests Organization (LEAF) makes it easy to plant native shrubs, cedars and pawpaw trees on private properties to enhance biodiversity, brighten up your space and support native wildlife and pollinators.

Edible species provide a local food source in an urban environment, offering a great opportunity to promote food security and share with your community.

Harvest the urban forest, support native wildlife and get the most out of your backyard!

Native shrubs, cedars and pawpaws are available to residents of Toronto, York Region and some municipalities within Durham Region - To see a map of their eligible service areas:

https://www.yourleaf.org/files/2025.08.27_leaf_service_areas_map.pdf

For all your info about ordering shrubs, cedars and/or Pawpaws direct from LEAF:

https://www.yourleaf.org/shrubs-cedars-and-pawpaws

Hill Potters Guild Spring Sale

Date:  May 1-3, 2026

Time: May 1st, 12PM-6PM. May 2nd 10AM-6PM. May 3rd 12PM-4PM

Location: 530 Carrville Road, Richmond Hill

Jane's Walk, Hosted by Strong Richmond Hill

Date: Sunday, May 3

Time: 12pm

Location: Richmond Hill Public Library - Central Branch

To Register: strh.ca/jw26

Plants Sale hosted by the Richmond Hill Horticulture Society

Date: Saturday, May 9

Time: 9am to 12 pm

Location: McConaghy Centre, 10100 Yonge Street

Here’s how you can join in on the L’ARCHE DAYBREAK WALK WITH HOPE on Saturday, May 9:

🚶5KM Walk

• Where: Our Lady Queen of the World Catholic Academy  

• Address: 10475 Bayview Avenue, Richmond Hill  

• Registration: 9 AM  

• Kick-off Ceremony: 10 AM  

🚶2KM Walk

• Where: Delmanor Elgin Mills  

• Address: 80 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill

• Registration: 9:45 AM

• Kick-off Ceremony: 10:45 AM  

✅ To register, donate, or create your own team:

https://larchedaybreak.akaraisin.com/ui/walkwithhope

Luminis Choir Presents - Voices of Spring Light

Date: Tuesday, May 19

Time: 8 - 9:15 PM

Location: Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church, 10066 Yonge St, Richmond Hill

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/luminis-choir-voices-of-spring-light-tickets-1986965776124

Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan's Annual Spring Fair

Date: Saturday, May 23

Time: 12:00pm to 3:00pm

Location: Richmond Green Sports Complex, 1300 Elgin Mills Rd E

Walk for Hill House Hospice, Presented By Canso Investment Counsel Ltd

Date: Sunday, May 24

Time: 8:30 am to 12 pm

Location: Hill House Hospice:

36 Wright Street, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 4A1

To register: please click here

Ward 2 Councillor Scott Thompson's Annual Eco Family Fest

Date: Saturday, May 30

Time: 12:00pm to 5:00pm

Location: Elgin Barrow Arena & Town Park, 43 Church St S

Richmond Hill Heritage Centre

Explore the galleries, exhibits and events that are available to the public at Richmond Hill’s own Heritage Centre located at 19 Church Street North, just east of our storied Yonge Street Heritage Core, in the Amos Wright Heritage House and Park.

Learn more about the Heritage Centre by clicking here

Climate Mitigation and Adaptation 

CURRENT SITUATION: It is too late to fully stop the effects of the climate crisis - However, local communities can also now prepare to adapt to the new normals of a changing climate:

✅ https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/world-likely-exceed-key-global-warming-target-soon-now-what

✅ https://www.who.int/health-topics/climate-change#tab=tab_

MITIGATION 

✅CLEAResult Canada:

https://www.clearesult.ca/programs

✅ Authorized delivery agent for these two programs: https://www.clearesult.ca/programs/low-income-programs

  •  Home Winterproofing - From Enbridge:

https://www.enbridgegas.com/ontario/rebates-energy-conservation/home-winterproofing-program

  •  Energy Affordability from Save on Energy:

https://saveonenergy.ca/For-Your-Home/Energy-Affordability-Program

Some handy upgrades suggestions:

  •  Basic - LED bulbs, power bars, efficient faucets, weather stripping, drying racks

  •  Comprehensive* - SMART thermostats, fridges, freezers, window A/Cs, and Heat Pumps

*Important Note - each upgrade is decided on a case by case basis and will depend on meeting required eligibility criteria

ADAPTATION 

✅ CREW-Community Resilience to EXTREME WEATHER:

https://crewresilience.ca/impacts/get-prepared-for-emergencies/

  •  Canadians should prepare to look after themselves for the first 72 hours following an emergency event ~ from all levels of government

Find out how to:

  ◦  Make an Emergency Plan

  ◦  Grow your social network to support each other - get to know your neighbours

  ◦  Help those with special needs near you

  ◦  Prepare a Go Bag and an Emergency Kit

• Climate resilience starts at home - Please see more info above under "Emergency Preparedness".

✅ Learn about being Richmond Hill Resilient:

https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/learn-more/Climate-Change.asp

✅ Climate Action Richmond Hill:

https://climateactionrh.org/