Welcome

In April, there are many important date acknowledged by the Ontario government (https://www.ontario.ca/laws): 

• Sikh Heritage Month

There are also many other important dates, including:

• Passover festival begins Apr 1, 2026 at sundown; ends at nightfall on Apr 9, 2026, which commemorates the slavery of the Israelites in Egypt and their ultimate exodus to freedom.
• Apr 2, 2026  is the World Autism Awareness Day ! This year's theme is  "Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)"!
• Easter day 2026 is on Sunday, April 5th Sunday, which marks the Christian celebration of Jesus' resurrection.
• Orthodox Easter in 2026 is on Sunday, April 12. This date marks the culmination of Holy Week and the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

From community level:

• Road closure Arnold Crescent, between Major Mackenzie Drive and Elizabeth Street South from April 13 to end of 2026
• Temporary water service during construction - Arnold crescent, Highland lane and Elizabeth street
• Installation of Traffic Calming Measures on Oxford Street from Yonge Street to Bathurst Street
• Co-host with Jefferson Community Association, Ward 4 annual clean up green up event  was conducted around 17 parks/trails.

From city level:

• Yard waste collection has started from April 14, 2026
• 2026 Election nomination starting from May 1. 

From regional level:

• The YRT services are being revised beginning Sunday, April 26, 2026.
• YRT is looking for your feedback on service improvements planned for the upcoming year.

Thank you!

Simon Cui

Richmond Hill Ward 4 Councillor

Cellphone: 437-326-0206

Website: https://simoncui.ca

Email: simon.cui@richmondhill.ca

Chapter 1 Incoming Events in May 2026

May 1-3, 2026 Shop local - Help Support local Potters this Spring!

For almost 50 years, Hill Potter’s Guild has been part of the Richmond Hill community. A non-profit cooperative, members have been stewards of our local heritage, maintaining the historic Burr House and Guild Hall at 530 Carrville Road in Richmond Hill.

Help support their work by visiting their Spring Sale at The Burr House Gallery at 530 Carrville Road in Richmond Hill and view and purchase one-of-a-kind ceramics. The sale will feature pottery by many various potters. For more information on the up-coming Spring Potters Sale, Friday May 1st to Sunday May 3rd, 2026 visit the Hill Potters's Website at https://hill-potters.square.site/. For the latest on the sale with features on the Potters and their creations, follow @hillpotters on Instagram and Facebook.

Date: May 1-3

Address:  530 Carrville Road

May 2: Spring Exploration Walk: Insects (Free Workshop)

Ever wonder who’s rustling under the leaves, flying through the air, or climbing up the stems of your favourite plants? Join the TRCA and City of Richmond Hill for a gentle, curiosity‑filled stroll through Phyllis Rawlinson Park, where we’ll explore the hidden lives of various insects that make spring so magical. Perfect for nature lovers of all ages—Get outside and let's discover Spring in a completely new way. 

This event is intended for Ages 4+:

• Beginner level information 
• Activities and concepts that are friendly for all ages 
• Intended audience includes children, youth, and adults

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Address: Oak Ridges Community Centre - 12895 Bayview Ave

May 2: A Victorian Afternoon: Puzzle Cards and Tea with Liana of Creativeli Designs

Step back in time and explore the art of Victorian puzzle cards – intricately folded paper notes once used to share hidden messages. In this guided workshop, you’ll design your own puzzle purse card using modern lettering and decorative details, followed by a light Afternoon Tea. A relaxing blend of history, creativity, and hands-on making.

Register for A Victorian Afternoon: Puzzle Cards and Tea with Liana of Creativeli Designs.

https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/richmondhill/activity/search/detail/138905?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Address: Heritage Centre, Gardenview Room

May 2-3: RHGA Member Gallery Show and Sale - Exploring Nature, Identity, and Human Presence

Home to the Richmond Hill Group of Artists, our gallery features exhibitions that change regularly, showcasing the creativity of individual artists and small groups. You’ll find a wonderful variety of styles, mediums, and themes — there’s always something new to discover! Drop by often, meet our artists, and be inspired by the art and community that make the Mill Pond Gallery such a special place. Free parking and no admission fee. All are welcome!

Saturdays and Sundays – 11 am to 5 pm

Address: Mill Pond Gallery, 314 Mill Street, Richmond Hill, L4C 4B5

May 9:  Richmond Hill  Garden & Horticultural Society - Plan Sale 

2026 Plant Sale FlyerHappy 2026! We anticipate selling plants at three in-person events this year:

Tables throughout the McConaghy Centre gymnasium will be overflowing with Perennials, Annuals, Tropicals, Succulents, Herbs and Vegetables. Signs will identify plants that are Native and Pollinator-friendly. Plants will primarily be from a member-tended Greenhouse in Richmond Hill. In addition to plants, our big public sale will include garden-related items such as new and gently used books and magazines.

Date: Saturday, May 9th, 2026 9:00 am to Noon

Address: McConaghy Centre 10100 Yonge Street Richmond Hill, 

Open to the Public and Cash and Credit Cards Accepted

May 9: Doors Open & Studio Tour

Join a city-wide celebration of Richmond Hill’s heritage and culture. Visit historic buildings, cultural spaces, artist studios, and unique local businesses. Connect with the people and places that shape Richmond Hill.

This free event is part of Doors Open Ontario, supported by Ontario Heritage Trust

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

Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Spring Fling - Richmond Hill Group of Artists Gallery Show and Sale

We’d love to welcome you to the Mill Pond Gallery, where you can enjoy and purchase original artwork created by talented local artists.Home to the Richmond Hill Group of Artists, our gallery features exhibitions that change regularly, showcasing the creativity of individual artists and small groups. You’ll find a wonderful variety of styles, mediums, and themes — there’s always something new to discover!

Drop by often, meet our artists, and be inspired by the art and community that make the Mill Pond Gallery such a special place.

• Saturday, May 9, 2026 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Sunday, May 10, 2026 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Saturday, May 16, 2026 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Sunday, May 17, 2026 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Address:Mill Pond Gallery, 314 Mill Street, Richmond Hill, L4C 4B5

May 22 – 24, 2026 Project Blaze

Project Blaze is a fully involved fire service experience for high school students within the City of Richmond Hill, run by Richmond Hill Fire & Emergency Services. Project Blaze has been created with two goals in mind: build awareness around career paths within the Fire Service & provide future generations with the knowledge and tools they need to be successful.

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

Project Blaze applications are now open to female-identifying students who are enrolled at a Richmond Hill high school or who are Richmond Hill residents enrolled in a high school in a neighbouring.

To apply, applicants must:

• Identify as female, have a positive attitude & be in good physical condition
• Be enrolled at a Richmond Hill High School or be a resident of Richmond Hill attending high school in a neighbouring municipality
• Possess a valid provincial health card prior to May 22, 2026 – the first day of Project Blaze
• Be able to supply your own CSA safety footwear (all other personal protective equipment will be supplied to the participants)
• Be able to provide your own transportation to and from Richmond Hill Fire & Emergency Services Headquarters located at 1200 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill
• Complete the online registration by April 30, 2026
• Be committed to attend all Project Blaze activities for the full duration of the program, May 22 and 23 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and May 24 from 8 a.m. to 12 pm
• If an applicant feels they may be faced with a barrier(s) that could prevent them from applying to Project Blaze, please contact Shelby Rowland, Public Educator at shelby.rowland@richmondhill.ca or 905-780-2906.

QUESTIONS? PLEASE CONTACT: Public Educator, Shelby Rowland,  shelby.rowland@richmondhill.ca | 905-780-2906

May 23:  The Art of Paper Quilling with Hyunah Yi

Discover the art of paper quilling – a relaxing and intricate craft that involves rolling and shaping thin strips of paper to create beautiful designs with dimension. In this Spring-inspired workshop, artist-instructor Hyunah Yi will guide you step-by-step through foundational quilling techniques, starting with simple coils and progressing to more detailed arrangements. You will create your own daisy flower and bird design to take home.

Register for The Art of Paper Quilling with Hyunah Yi

https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/richmondhill/activity/search/detail/142777?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026 10:00 am

Address: Richmond Hill Cultural Centre, Boardroom

May 24: 2026 Walk for Hill House Hospice presented by Canso Investment Counsel Ltd.

On Sunday, May 24, 2026, join us for our annual Walk for Hill House Hospice presented by Canso Investment Counsel Ltd. You’ll enjoy a leisurely 2.8 km stroll through Richmond Hill’s beautiful community of Mill Pond, host to many heritage homes and a unique natural park rich in history dating back prior to 1848 when Mill Pond was initially constructed as a power supply to local mills. Your participation helps us raise critical funds to support individuals in the final stages of life. Many people are unaware that hospice care represents a standard of excellence, offering high-quality care. Hill House Hospice is dedicated to providing expert medical care, dignity, kindness, and compassion to those on an end-of-life journey and at no cost to residents or their families.

Link to Register! 

https://hillhousehospice.akaraisin.com/ui/walkforhillhousehospice

Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Address: Hill House Hospice, 36 Wright St., Richmond Hill ON L4C 4A1

May 25: Ward 5 Music Festival – Voices from The Hill

Songs from the Hill presents ‘Voices from The Hill’ -  hosted by Ward 5 Councillor Karen Cilevitz - An evening of local singer songwriter talent to take place at the Lexus Hall of the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, at 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 24. Two stellar groups will be performing at this Voices from The Hill event – The Beverley Street Group, a group of seasoned instrumentalists and vocal performers, and, Chorus York, an exceptional adult choir based in Richmond Hill. Free to the public and, through the generous support of our community sponsors, will raise funds for our identified Songs from The Hill 2026 Charities - 360Kids and the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank

Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026 7:00 pm

Address: The Lexus Hall - Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, 10268 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill

May 30: Botanical Watercolour Drawing with Fernanda Saraga

Explore the beauty and symbolism of ginkgo leaves in this immersive half‑day botanical art workshop. You’ll learn to draw and layer elegant ginkgo forms, then transfer your design to watercolour paper and bring it to life with blue washes and shimmering gold accents. No experience is needed—just curiosity and a desire to create.

Register for Botanical Watercolour Drawing with Fernanda Saraga

https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/richmondhill/activity/search/detail/142778?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026 10:00 am

Address: Richmond Hill Cultural Centre, Boardroom

May 30: Fairy Furniture: Mixed Media Creations with Ashley of Fuchsia and Fae

ind your inner whimsy in this half-day workshop as you reconnect with nature and bring your fairy-tale dreams to life. Join artist Instructor Ashley Hug on a short nature walk to gather items of inspiration then craft and decorate miniature fairy furniture using natural materials. These whimsical (and functional!) pieces are perfect for holding crystals or small trinkets. 

Fairy Furniture: Mixed Media Creations with Ashley of Fuchsia and Fae

https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/richmondhill/activity/search/detail/138907?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Address: Rouge Woods CC, Aspen Room B

Chapter 2 Community, City and Regional Service Changes 

Community Service:

Road closure on Arnold Crescent, between Major Mackenzie Drive and Elizabeth Street South

Please be advised that Arnold Crescent, between Major Mackenzie Drive and Elizabeth Street South, will be closed to through traffic starting April 13th, 2026, until the end of the year (see map). This closure is required to safely complete major infrastructure upgrades, including watermain, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and roadway improvements.

Due to extensive excavation and construction activities, road closure is necessary to protect public safety and allow the work to be completed efficiently.

Traffic and Resident Impacts

• Emergency vehicle access will be maintained at all times.
• Local access will be permitted for residents within the closure limits.
• All other traffic will be detoured using Major Mackenzie Drive, Elizabeth Street, Centre Street, Yonge Street, and open sections of Arnold Crescent.

Residents and motorists should expect changes to travel routes and possible delays during construction. The City is working closely with its contractor to minimize disruption and complete the work as safely and efficiently as possible.

For additional project information including past design notices, please visit RichmondHill.ca/CapitalProjects

Temporary water service during construction - Arnold crescent, Highland lane and Elizabeth street

The City is continuing with planned infrastructure improvements on Arnold Crescent and Elizabeth Street. To ensure uninterrupted water service during underground watermain construction, a temporary watermain bypass and a temporary water meter will be installed at affected properties.

We understand that construction activities may cause some inconvenience and appreciate your patience and cooperation as this essential work is carried out.

How your water service will be provided:

• Potable water will be supplied to your home through a temporary above-ground watermain connected to the municipal water supply.  
• Each affected property will be connected through a temporary water meter, which will be used for the duration of construction.  
• The temporary system allows water service to continue safely and reliably while permanent infrastructure work is underway.
• Water supplied through the temporary system meets all provincial drinking water quality standards and is safe for drinking, cooking and bathing.

Water meters, billing and leak detection

• Your existing water meter will not be used for billing during this phase of construction.
• Water consumption will be measured and billed using the temporary water meter.
• During the temporary water service period, leak detection and detailed consumption monitoring will not be available.
• As a result, the City will not be able to identify or confirm minor plumbing leaks at your property.
• Please note that any Water passing through the temporary water meter is billable.
• No action is required from residents regarding meters or billing.

What to expect

• No disruption to water service is expected during normal operations of the temporary system.
• The temporary waterline and meter will be installed carefully, typically along the boulevard or driveway area and will be protected.
• Short, temporary service interruptions may be required during initial connection or final removal of the by-pass. The residents will be notified in advance.
• Water pressures are expected to remain similar to normal conditions. Minor changes may be noticed temporarily, but are not expected to last.
• Access to homes, driveways, and emergency services will be maintained at all times.

Safety and Care

• Please do not move, adjust or tamper with the temporary watermain line or meter.
• Use caution when walking, cycling, or driving near the by-pass, particularly in the evening or during low visibility  conditions.
• The temporary system is only in place for the duration of construction and will be removed once permanent watermain installation is completed and operational.

Schedule

• Installation of temporary water system: May 2026
• Estimated duration: Four months (projected watermain completion in September 2026, pending completion of watermain work)

Thank you for understanding and cooperation as the City completes this essential infrastructure improvement.

• If you have any questions related to construction, please contact the project lead.
• If you have any questions related to water billing, please contact at 905-771-8949 or revenue@richmondhill.ca.
• For additional project information including past design notices, please visit RichmondHill.ca/CapitalProjects or scan this QR code. If you do not have access to the website, please contact the project lead.

Installation of Traffic Calming Measures on Oxford Street from Yonge Street to Bathurst Street

Please be advised that the City will be installing traffic calming measures on Oxford Street from Yonge Street to Bathurst Street, 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.

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

• ‘SLOW’ Stencil (one direction);
• 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 Figures A and B on the following pages.

Should you have any questions regarding these measures, please contact our Traffic Safety and Operations group at traffic.inquiries@richmondhill.ca.

City Services: 

2026 Yard Waste Collection Schedule:

• April 14 to October 9 - Every other week on your garbage collection day*
• October 13 to December 11 - Weekly on your regular waste collection day

*If you live in the "blue zone" collection begins the week of April 14. If you live in the "yellow zone" it begins the week of April 21. Check the Waste Management Calendar to see what zone you're in.

Curbside collection guidelines

• Yard waste must be placed at the curb no later than 7a.m. on the day of collection and no earlier than 6p.m. the night before.
• Yard waste must be set out in a large Kraft paper bag or in a reusable, rigid, open top container, such as a garbage can or bushel basket (max. 125L/33gal). No plastic bags.
• Place a yellow yard waste sticker on open-top reusable containers. Free stickers are available at Access Richmond Hill (225 East Beaver Creek Road) and at the Operations Center (1200 Elgin Mills Road East). 
• Bundle branches, sticks and twigs with twine (maximum length 1.2m/4ft and maximum diameter of 10cm/4in per branch).
• Each container, bag or bundle must not exceed 18 kg/40lbs.
• If yard waste has not been collected, it must be removed from the curb by 9p.m. on the collection day. It is against the City's Waste Bylaw to leave yard waste at the curb days prior to collection.

Drop off your yard waste

Richmond Hill residents can drop off their yard waste at the Bloomington Yard Waste Depot located at 1351 Bloomington Road, Richmond Hill. Visit york.ca/wastedepots for hours and fees.

NOMINATION PERIOD BEGINS MAY 1 FOR 2026 MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

Richmond Hill Shares Important Information for Candidates and Voters

RICHMOND HILL – The City of Richmond Hill is kicking off the 2026 Municipal Elections with nomination period opening on May 1, 2026. Eligible voters will elect a Mayor, Regional and Local Councillors, Ward Councillors and School Board Trustees. Voting Day is October 26, 2026 and the next term of Council is November 15, 2026 to November 14, 2030.

Candidate eligibility

To run for an office on Richmond Hill Council, a candidate must be:

• a Canadian citizen;
• at least 18 years of age on or before Voting Day (October 26, 2026);
• a resident of the City of Richmond Hill, or the owner or tenant of land in Richmond Hill (or the spouse of any such owner or tenant of land).

To run for School Board Trustee, candidates must be:

• a Canadian citizen;
• at least 18 years of age on or before Voting Day (October 26, 2026)
• qualified to vote for members of that district school board and resident in that School Board’s area of jurisdiction

Potential candidates must comply with all provisions of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996. This includes, but is not limited to, not accepting any contributions or incurring any expenses pertaining to their election campaign until after their nomination is filed with and accepted by the City Clerk. Potential candidates should carefully review the full eligibility requirements and nomination information at RichmondHill.ca/RHVotes before submitting their nomination.

Filing a nomination

To file a nomination, eligible candidates may email candidates@richmondhill.ca to make an appointment with the Office of the City Clerk at Richmond Hill’s Municipal Offices (225 East Beaver Creek Road). While walk-ins are permitted, individuals who do not book an appointment may experience a significant wait.

• Completed forms can be filled in and printed before the scheduled meeting but should only be signed at the meeting.
• At the time of filing, all candidates must submit a completed nomination form, the declaration of qualification, government-issued photo identification with a qualifying address and pay the prescribed filing fee. Council candidates are also required to file at least 25 fully complete endorsements on the prescribed form.
• Forms are available at RichmondHill.ca/RHVotes. Nominations will be accepted until 2 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Vote online or in person

Richmond Hill is offering the choice to vote in person or online. Online voting will be available from October 20 to 26 and in-person voting on October 24, 25 and 26.

Who can vote?

To be eligible to vote you must be:

• a Canadian citizen;
• at least 18 years of age on or before Voting Day (October 26, 2026);
• a resident, owner or tenant of land in the City of Richmond Hill, or the spouse of such tenant or owner; and
• not otherwise prohibited by law from voting.

To vote, you must also be on the Voters’ List, managed by Elections Ontario. Use Election Ontario’s Voter Registration Tool to check, update, add or remove your information from the Voters’ List if you:

• have changed your name or address;
• own or rent a new property;
• no longer own or rent a property;
• want to remove your information; or
• want to remove the information of a deceased person.

The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is legislatively responsible for collecting school board support designation information. You must update your school board support designation through MPAC’s Online School Board Support Tool by June 1, 2026, otherwise, your ballot will default to English Public School Board Trustee voting.

For more information about the 2026 Municipal Elections, visit RichmondHill.ca/RHVotes.

York Region Services:

• The YRT services are being revised beginning Sunday, April 26, 2026.
• YRT is looking for your feedback on service improvements planned for the upcoming year.