【Red Maple Journal / Helen Yang】 In 2025, Richmond Hill Regional and Local Councillor Joe DiPaola continued his commitment to community well-being by organizing events on senior safety, public awareness, and engagement that reflected a shared vision of a safer, more caring, and better-connected Richmond Hill.

Community Engagement and Senior Safety

On May 16, 2025, Richmond Hill Residents gathered at Rouge Woods Community Centre for a free Community Safety Seminar hosted by Richmond Hill Regional and Local Councillor Joe DiPaola in partnership with York Regional Police. The seminar provided important information on senior safety, fraud prevention, distraction thefts, online scams, vehicle safety, and robbery prevention. Participants welcomed the opportunity to learn directly from police officers and engage in open discussion, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and shared responsibility in keeping the community safe. For more about the event, visit: https://lutongshe.ca/index.php?c=show&id=280

Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola hosted the second Free Senior Safety Information Seminar on November 28, 2025, at Richmond Hill Mon Sheong Court, reaching out to the senior community. Presented by York Regional Police, the session focused on fraud prevention and practical steps seniors can take to stay safe. The seminar reflects York Region’s advocacy and strategic efforts to support seniors and enhance the health and well-being of its growing and diverse senior population. Strong participation and positive feedback have paved the way for more senior safety seminars at the venue.

Bringing Community Together

Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola’s Free Family Fun Day – Community BBQ, held on June 7, 2025, brought families and neighbours together and served more than 3,000 complimentary BBQ meals. The afternoon featured live music and performances, face painting, balloon artistry, inflatable attractions, and community information booths. With the support of vendors, sponsors, volunteers, city staff, and entertainers, the event promoted a celebration of Richmond Hill’s diversity and vibrant culture.

Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola’s next Free Family Fun Day – Community BBQ is scheduled for June 20, 2026, at Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park. All residents are welcome to attend.

Leadership and Service to Richmond Hill

Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola has represented Richmond Hill residents for four terms on City Council since first being elected in 1997. He currently serves as Chair of the Budget Committee of the Whole, Chair of York Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee, Chair of the Official Plan Update Committee, and Vice Chair of the Affordable Housing Strategy Implementation Committee.

As the City’s Budget Chair, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola has continually stressed the need for efficiencies across the corporation to reduce costs and the tax burden on residents. His notable achievement as Budget Chair was a zero percent tax rate increase for the 2021 budget. He is proud that the City of Richmond Hill has once again been recognized for excellence in financial planning, as the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded Richmond Hill the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the City’s 2025 Budget. On this achievement, he stated:

"The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is one of the highest honours in government budgeting, and receiving it is a great achievement for the City. Every year, Council works to review the City’s finances so we can wisely manage publicly funded resources and offer the services that our residents need."

On November 12, 2025, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola’s motion to have all life-saving AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) located within Richmond Hill registered passed unanimously at the Council meeting. Once implemented, residents calling 9-1-1 during a cardiac emergency will be guided to the nearest registered AED, positioning Richmond Hill as a provincial leader in emergency planning.

As a long-time advocate for the Yonge North Subway extension, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola welcomed the Metrolinx announcement confirming two subway stations in Richmond Hill by 2030, supporting the city’s long-term growth and improved transit connectivity.

Appreciation and Holiday Greetings

In the spirit of the holidays, Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola thanks all the residents of Richmond Hill for the honour of serving them as their Regional Councillor, and sends his warm greetings to the community:

“No matter how you celebrate this holiday season, may your home be filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of those you hold dear. Wishing you peace, joy, and every happiness this holiday season and throughout the coming year. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year 2026!”

Stay in Touch

Richmond Hill Regional and Local Councillor Joe DiPaola welcomes residents to stay informed about his upcoming events or to reach out for assistance:

· Phone: 905-771-2498

· Email: joe.dipaola@richmondhill.ca

· Website: www.joedipaola.ca