Yuliya Benedziktavich's Priorities for Ward 5 Councillor
Driven by real data and facts, not slogans.
These priorities grew out of conversations with neighbours and a close look at what the City already does. They begin with everyday life in Ward 5, the streets we cross, the places we shop, the questions we bring to City Hall and the neighbourhoods we want to feel at home in.
Here is where I would start as your Ward 5 Councillor — by listening carefully, finding out who is responsible and coming back with a clear answer about what can happen next.
Safer Roads & Walkable Communities
Whether you are walking with kids, pushing a stroller, heading to a nearby shop or taking a little more time to cross as an older neighbour or someone using a mobility aid, you should feel safe and comfortable on our streets.
What Ward 5 Neighbours Tell Me
When I knock on doors in Ward 5, speeding comes up again and again. Neighbours tell me about streets they hesitate to cross, scooters moving unpredictably through traffic and the rush around schools at drop-off and pick-up time. For people living on those streets, even pulling out of their driveway can be stressful. These are everyday concerns, and they deserve careful attention.
What is already planned for Ward 5
Richmond Hill has a ten-year Traffic Safety and Operations Strategy to guide improvements on local roads. The City looks at vehicle speeds, traffic volumes, collision history and how people use the street on foot. This information helps staff identify where traffic-calming measures or better pedestrian crossings are needed. For neighbours who have been raising concerns about their street, understanding this process matters: they should know how a location is assessed and what happens after it is selected.
Several streets in Ward 5 have already been identified for improvements. Oak, Edgar and Spruce avenues, along with part of Weldrick Road West, were selected for the 2025 traffic-calming program. Pearson Avenue, from Garden Avenue to Edgar Avenue, was also selected for the 2025 program. Baif Boulevard was selected for 2026. Pedestrian crossovers have also been identified at Don Head Village Boulevard and Marsh Street, and at Castle Rock Drive and Mayvern Crescent. These are places our neighbours use in their daily lives — walking with children, heading to a park or making their way home. Being included in a program is an important step, and residents deserve to know when they can expect to see the improvements on their street.
What I would do for Safer Roads as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would follow up on these projects and keep neighbours informed about their progress. I would ask what has been completed, what is scheduled and what still needs a decision, then share those answers in plain language. If a project is delayed, I would ask what is holding it up and when residents can expect another update. I would also listen to the people who use these streets every day: whether a crossing feels easier to navigate, whether speeding remains a concern and what still needs attention.
For streets that have not yet been selected, I would help residents bring their concerns into the City’s assessment process. A precise location, the time of day and a description of what happens can help staff understand the problem. You may notice drivers speeding at the same time each evening, vehicles turning while people are crossing or a place where it is difficult to cross with a stroller or mobility aid. You should not have to understand the whole municipal process before asking for help. I would help you reach the right people and follow up so you know what happens next.
Around schools, I would ask City staff, the school and the school board to look together at the busy drop-off and pick-up periods. Families need safe ways to arrive, and neighbours need to be able to get in and out of their driveways. Looking at what happens on the ground can help identify practical improvements. Where a concern involves a road managed by York Region, I would take it to the Region and keep residents informed about the response.
Is there a street or intersection in Ward 5 that worries you? Tell me where it is, when the problem happens and what you have noticed. I would like to hear from you.
Safe Neighbourhoods & Safe Homes
Feeling safe matters — at home, on an evening walk or when your children are playing outside. When something worries you, you should know whom to call and trust that your concern will be taken seriously.
What Ward 5 Neighbours Tell Me
When I go door to door, I hear it a lot — people telling me about car thefts and break-ins nearby, and feeling less safe than they used to. Some neighbours near a daytime support centre that recently moved to their street also tell me they feel uneasy and want clear answers about how concerns are handled. People who need support deserve access to it — and neighbours deserve to feel safe at home. On top of that, many don't really know their neighbours, or who to call when something feels off.
What support is already available
Most of us don’t think about neighbourhood safety until something happens — a neighbour’s car has been stolen, or you notice that an empty property down the street is falling into disrepair. Suddenly, a familiar place feels a little different. You want to do something, but you may not know where to start. There are people you can turn to, and knowing which service handles which concern can make that first step easier.
The good news: Richmond Hill already has people and systems in place for exactly these moments. York Regional Police’s 2 District covers Richmond Hill and the surrounding area, and for anything short of an emergency, the number to know is 1-866-876-5423 (911 stays for true emergencies).
If you’d rather build something with your neighbours directly, YRP will help you start a Neighbourhood Watch on your own street — they’ll walk you through the first meeting and help you find a coordinator and block captains. You don’t need to wait for the City to launch a program. That conversation can start on your porch this week.
Safety isn’t only about people — it’s also about places. An unsafe building or a neglected lot needs a different kind of attention. Richmond Hill’s Property Standards and Clean Neighbourhoods By-laws give the City tools to address property maintenance concerns. A quick email to bylaw@richmondhill.ca or a call to 905-771-0198 starts the process.
Where a property standards violation is identified, the City can require the owner to make repairs.
The places we walk through matter too. Lighting, clear sightlines and thoughtfully designed paths can help a public space feel more welcoming. Richmond Hill has a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design guide as part of its guidance for development. It gives us a useful starting point for conversations about how the spaces around us can support neighbourhood safety.
What I would do for Safe Neighbourhoods as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would help you find a clear next step when a safety concern has gone unanswered. If you have already reported a problem, my office would follow up with the responsible service, ask what information is available and explain the response in plain language. When an issue takes time, I would keep you informed about what I learn and what still needs an answer.
If there is a park or path you avoid after dark, I would ask City staff to look at that location with residents and consider whether lighting, visibility or maintenance could be improved. I would ask what is practical, what it would cost and how it could be considered through the City’s work and budget process.
For neighbours living near the daytime support centre, I would seek a meeting with residents, the provider and the relevant City and police representatives. I would ask for clear information about staffing, security and whom residents can contact when a concern arises, including outside opening hours. I would encourage regular communication and help residents bring specific concerns to the appropriate service. People who need support and people who live nearby both deserve to be heard and treated with respect.
Is there a public place in Ward 5 where you feel unsafe after dark, or a property nearby that has been neglected? Tell me where it is and what you have noticed. I would like to hear from you — you know your neighbourhood best.
Accountability for How Public Money Is Spent
Your property tax bill is part of your household budget. You deserve to understand where that money goes, what it means for your neighbourhood and how to ask questions before spending decisions are made.
What Ward 5 Neighbours Tell Me
When I go door to door in Ward 5, neighbours tell me how rising property taxes stretch their household budget. Older residents on fixed incomes worry about keeping up, especially after many years in the same home. Some tell me their pension is just above the limit for tax relief, but that doesn’t make the bills any easier to pay. I also hear a simple question: “Where does our money go?” Neighbours want to know what their taxes pay for and what improvements they can expect close to home. They deserve clear answers and to know that their money is being handled carefully and honestly.
Understanding where your taxes go
When you look at your property tax bill, it is natural to think of it as money paid to the City. But in 2026, Richmond Hill keeps about 28 cents of every residential property tax dollar. Around 52 cents goes to York Region and 20 cents to education. Understanding that split helps explain which spending decisions Richmond Hill Council can influence.
The City’s 2026 budget includes $257.9 million for everyday services, such as waste collection and recreation, and $121.1 million for more than 152 capital projects. The increase on the City’s portion of the tax bill works out to about $6.29 a month for an average single detached home. These are big numbers, but the questions closer to home are simpler: what is planned for our neighbourhood, when will it happen and how will we know what it cost?
You can look up the City’s budget documents and financial statements yourself — they’re posted online. The City also asked residents for feedback while building the 2026 budget. There’s also an Integrity Commissioner, whose job is to check whether Council members are following the rules — things like conflicts of interest and proper conduct. That helps residents understand the standards Council members are expected to meet. When it comes to a road or park project, neighbours also want to know what was delivered, what it cost and how it benefits their community.
What I would do for Public Accountability as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would help neighbours understand the spending decisions that affect our community. Before the budget is finalized, I would explain which proposed projects involve Ward 5, what they are expected to cost and how residents can share their questions and priorities. You should not need to work through a long budget document to understand what is being considered for your neighbourhood.
If a local project takes longer or costs more than expected, I would ask City staff what has changed and share the explanation in plain language. I would follow up on the next steps and let neighbours know when more information is expected. Where an answer is still uncertain, I would be clear about that too.
I would also support making information about project costs, progress and spending decisions easier to find and understand. These decisions affect your household budget and the places you use every day. You deserve to be able to follow them and ask informed questions.
Is there a City project or expense in Ward 5 you’ve wondered about, or a place where you expected to see your tax dollars at work? Tell me what you have noticed and what you would like to understand.
Supporting Local Businesses That Hold Communities Together
The shops, cafés and local services we return to become part of everyday life in Ward 5. They are where we pick up dinner, meet a neighbour or turn to someone we trust for help. Behind each one is an owner working hard to keep the doors open, and their success matters to our neighbourhood.
What Residents Told the City
In the City’s 2025 conversations about the Yonge Street and Highway 7 corridor, residents spoke about everyday things that make a neighbourhood feel welcoming: local shops and cafés, groceries within walking distance, and well-lit places to sit and spend time. They also raised concerns about traffic, parking and sidewalk connections. Having a favourite local place matters. Getting there should be easy too.
Supporting the businesses close to home
Think of the shops along Yonge Street near Carrville Road and in our neighbourhood plazas. You might stop for groceries, pick up dinner or meet a friend for coffee. Over time, these places become familiar, and so do the people behind the counter. For a local owner, those visits help keep the business going. For neighbours, they bring useful services and a sense of connection close to home.
Running a small business takes more than a good idea. Sometimes an owner needs advice, help understanding a permit or support with the next step. Richmond Hill’s Small Business Enterprise Centre is a place to start. Eligible entrepreneurs can also explore Starter Company Plus and Summer Company. Also, Digital Main Street offers online training to help owners build their digital skills and strengthen their business online. For questions about permits, signs and zoning, the City’s Guide for New Businesses helps owners find the right contacts.
Outside pressures can make running a business harder too. The City has brought together resources for businesses facing tariff uncertainty, giving owners somewhere to turn for information and support.
I know this world from the inside. I run my own small business, so I understand the long days, the paperwork, the permits and the worry about where the next customer will come from. Every city has its own rules, and every business has its own challenges. That is why I would start by listening to Ward 5 owners to understand what they are facing and what support would make a difference.
What I would do for Local Businesses as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would make time to listen to local business owners and bring their concerns to City Hall. Whether you run a shop, a café or a local service, I would want to understand what is making your day harder and where the City could help.
If a question about a permit, a sign or a business space has gone unanswered, I would help you reach the right staff and follow up on the next steps. You should know who is handling your question, what information is needed and when you can expect an update.
When changes to streets or new developments are considered, I would ask how they could affect nearby businesses — including customer access, deliveries, sidewalks and parking. I would encourage owners to share their experience early, while plans can still be discussed. I would also help them find relevant advice, training and support, and bring recurring difficulties to the City’s attention.
Do you run a business in Ward 5, or know a local place we should hear from? Tell me about it and what would help. I would like to hear about the challenges you face and the ideas you have for our neighbourhood.
Arts, Culture & a Vibrant City
A neighbourhood feels more like home when there are places to meet and things to look forward to. Local concerts, celebrations and activities bring neighbours of all ages together and give us more to enjoy close to home.
What Ward 5 Neighbours Tell Me
When I go door to door in Ward 5, families tell me they would love more local events to look forward to — something festive that brings neighbours together. Parents also ask for more activities for children close to home. And I hear that young people need more places to meet and things to do in the evenings. These are simple wishes: more opportunities to enjoy our neighbourhood and spend time together.
What Richmond Hill already offers
Did you know Richmond Hill was once known as the “rose capital” of Canada? In the early twentieth century, local greenhouses helped give the community that name, and roses became part of its crest in the 1920s. Mills Roses, the city’s last commercial rose-growing business, closed in June 1982, but that history remains part of what makes Richmond Hill special.
Richmond Hill has cultural venues, city events and programs for children and teens. These are part of our community’s life, but the neighbours I speak with would like more to enjoy close to home: local celebrations, activities for their children and places where young people can spend time together in the evenings.
The City has also heard residents asking for more opportunities to celebrate culture, food and community traditions. Its Events Strategy for 2026–2036 aims to expand events across more seasons and neighbourhoods. The Recreation and Culture Plan guides facilities, programs and cultural opportunities through 2032.
The Community and Cultural Grant Program is one way to support ideas that come from residents themselves. It helps eligible community groups, cultural organizations and individual artists bring local activities and events to life.
For teenagers, the City offers programs and drop-in activities, including basketball and badminton at Richvale Community Centre here in Ward 5. These give teens a place to be active, meet friends and spend time together close to home.
The City also provides funding for community and cultural projects. Yet young adults, including students and those already working, tell me they still struggle to find places they want to go in the evenings. Some say they feel they have to head to downtown Toronto for a night out with friends. They would like more options here in Richmond Hill, where they can meet, enjoy themselves and feel part of the community.
What I would do for Arts and Culture as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would explore a gathering place of our own — a small, walkable street or open-air space where neighbours could meet, enjoy a café, browse a local market or spend an evening together. Places such as Main Street in Unionville and Machell’s Alley in Aurora offer ideas we could learn from. I would invite residents and local businesses to help identify possible locations, then work with City staff to understand the costs, access and what would be practical, starting with spaces we already have.
I would also explore a rose-themed festival or market with residents, local artists and businesses. Our rose-growing history gives us something special to celebrate. I would ask what a modest local event could look like, what support might be available and how it could bring neighbours together while welcoming people to our shops and cafés.
For teenagers, I would ask what activities they would like close to home and bring their ideas to City staff, including through the Youth Action Committee. I would also hear directly from students and working young adults about the evening options they feel are missing. Their needs are different, and I would raise both in discussions about local events, programs and gathering spaces.
Is there a park, plaza or corner of Ward 5 where you would love to spend more time? Tell me what would make it welcoming, or share an idea for a local event or activity. I’d love to hear what would bring you and your neighbours together.
Sources: Recreation and Culture Plan · Events Strategy 2026–2036 · Community and Cultural Grant Program · Events Planning Toolkit · Children and Teen Programs · Arts and Culture · Our History · Machell’s Alley (Town of Aurora) · Rose Capital of Canada (Historical Society) · Main Street in Unionville · Youth Action Committee
Responsiveness You Can Count On
When you contact City Hall about something that matters to you, you should feel heard. You deserve a clear answer, to know who is handling your concern and what happens next.
What I’d Like to Hear From Ward 5 Neighbours
When I go door to door in Ward 5, I want to hear not only what needs attention, but also what happens when neighbours ask for help. Did they receive an answer they could understand? Did they know whom to contact next? A concern can take time to resolve, but people should not be left wondering whether anyone is still looking into it.
Where to start when you need help
A missed garbage pickup or a streetlight that has gone out may seem like a small thing, but it matters when it affects your day or your street. Access Richmond Hill is a place to start. You can call 905-771-8800 Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., email access@richmondhill.ca or report a service problem through the City’s Customer Service Portal. Translation assistance is also available for residents who need help in a language other than English.
The City’s service commitment is to review email and web inquiries to Access Richmond Hill and get back to you within two business days. That first response may begin a longer process, depending on the concern. Knowing who is handling it, what the next step is and when to expect an update can make that process easier to follow.
What I would do for City Hall Responsiveness as Ward 5 Councillor
As Ward 5 Councillor, I would help you find a clear next step if you have contacted the City and still do not understand what is happening with your concern. My office would follow up with the responsible staff, ask about its status and explain the response in plain language. If more time is needed, I would share what I know and when another update is expected. If the City cannot do what you have asked, I would seek a clear explanation of why.
I would make it easy to contact my office by phone or email and offer regular opportunities to speak in person in Ward 5. You should feel comfortable asking a question, whether you know the municipal process well or are reaching out for the first time. I would listen, help identify the right contact and follow up on the next steps.
When the same difficulty comes up in conversations with different neighbours, I would bring it to the City’s attention and ask how the process could be improved. Individual concerns can reveal something that needs wider attention, and I would keep neighbours informed about the response.
Have you contacted the City and been left unsure about what happens next? Tell me what happened and what you would like help understanding. If you have a City request number, include it too. I’d like to hear from you.
Don’t see your concern here?
These priorities grew out of conversations with neighbours, but every street has its own story. If there’s something that matters to you and you don’t see it here, I’d really like to hear about it. Write to me, and tell me what’s on your mind.
Is there something important to you that we haven’t covered here? Share your concern or idea for Ward 5. I’d love to hear what would make a difference for you and your neighbours.