Statement from the Interim City Manager regarding workforce impacts of COVID-19

Richmond Hill – In a continued effort to protect residents and staff and help stop the spread of COVID-19, the City of Richmond Hill recently announced extended closures of our facilities and program and event cancellations. Like businesses throughout Richmond Hill and around the world, the impact to our services is resulting in a shortage of work.

As a result, we have made the difficult decision to end contracts for 12 contract and intern staff and temporarily lay off 1,052 part-time staff, primarily in the recreation and culture area. Providing layoff notices enable staff to access financial support through other levels of government during this crisis period.

We value and appreciate our staff and intend to recall temporarily laid off staff as soon as possible.

The layoffs will not impact our ability to deliver essential services, such as Fire and Emergency Services, waste collection and bylaw enforcement, which our community continues to rely on every day. 

Mary-Anne Dempster
Interim City Manager

Media Contact
For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Graver, Manager, Communication Services at kathleen.graver@richmondhill.ca