Richmond Hill Continues to Come Together to Build Our Community
Council received Richmond Hill’s Strategic Plan Phase 3 Implementation Plan which will guide the Town through the next four years. The Phase 3 Implementation Plan will build on the foundation already created through the Phase 1 and 2 Implementation Plans, which support the 2009 Strategic Plan. Richmond Hill will continue to invest in the community through projects such as the Lake Wilcox Park Youth Area, the new Oak Ridges Library and the development and restoration of parks. The Town also continues to investigate the future use of the Civic Precinct at Yonge Street and Major Mackenzie Drive, including the possible relocation of the Main Municipal Offices to that area. Richmond Hill will also develop a financial plan to explore alternative funding sources, establish an Internal Audit function and undertake multi-year budgeting. A new IT Strategy will ensure the Town is equipped with up-to-date technology and skills. In addition, Richmond Hill will continue to pursue new initiatives such as launching a new website, creating a comprehensive zoning by-law, finalizing the David Dunlap Observatory Master Plan and refreshing the Town’s Economic Development Strategy. The Phase 3 Implementation Plan is based on Richmond Hill’s Strategic Plan and its vision, where people come together to build our community. For more information, contact Gwen Manderson, Director, Strategic Initiatives at 905-771-2411.

Council Taking Steps to Help Protect Endangered Monarch Butterfly
Richmond Hill is joining communities across North America by taking action to help save the monarch butterfly through the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge. The monarch is an iconic species whose populations have declined by 90 per cent in the last 20 years. By taking the pledge, Richmond Hill is committed to restoring monarch habitat on public lands. Some actions the Town will take include, planting native milkweed and nectar plants in public parks and open spaces, as well as increasing the percentage of native trees and shrubs used in Town landscaping. Through its Healthy Yards Program, Richmond Hill will also educate and encourage citizens to plant native species and create monarch habitat on their own property. For more information, contact Councillor David West at 905-771-2480.