Richmond Hill – The Government of Ontario has issued an Enhanced Ministerial Zoning Order (eMZO) for the Transit Oriented Community (TOC) at High Tech Station. This eMZO is final, and provides the Province with the zoning certainty they have previously indicated was a requirement for them to proceed with the High Tech TOC. 

Richmond Hill Council remains committed to supporting the development of the Yonge North Subway Extension, and to realizing the ambitious vision for Richmond Hill Centre as a world-leading urban community and employment hub, and key destination in the GTA. We agree in principle with the concept of a Transit Oriented Community as a catalyst for new investment that advances the community’s vision for Richmond Hill Centre, encourages transit ridership and provides a destination city centre in the years to come.

Council has voiced concerns, shared by our residents, about several core elements of the province’s plan. The province has engaged with the City to discuss these concerns and we have seen some effort to more closely align their plan with our Richmond Hill Centre Secondary Plan. However, the province has clearly indicated it remains committed to its decision to increase the density targets and limit the amount of employment uses for the area compared with the City’s plan.

It is important to recognize this is still early days in a long term plan – nothing will change overnight. The projected growth will be phased in over several decades and there are still many details to be worked out. As these projects proceed, I will push for greater public consultation with residents and municipal officials. I am also committed to continuing discussions with the province and other partners to improve the plans over time and ensure local voices are heard. As an immediate next step, Council will be discussing how we move forward at a Special Council Meeting on April 20. Together, I am confident we will achieve the best possible outcome for Richmond Hill.

The future is bright and prosperous in Richmond Hill with many great opportunities ahead. Welcoming the subway to our bold new downtown at Richmond Hill Centre will help shape our City as a vibrant, welcoming and well-connected community. I invite residents to stay informed and stay involved as we move forward.

David West

Mayor

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MEDIA CONTACT

Lynn Chan, Communications Advisor, lynn.chan@richmondhill.ca