My Approach to Public Service

Every decision begins with the same question:

“What outcome best serves the residents and the long-term interests of Richmond Hill?”

Safer Streets & Neighbourhoods

Improving Safety for Seniors and Families

Bernard Avenue Pedestrian Crossover

After concerns were raised about the difficulty of crossing Bernard Avenue, particularly by seniors travelling between a nearby retirement residence and local shops, I worked with City staff to advocate for a safer crossing. I'm pleased that construction of a new overhead pedestrian crossover is now underway, making this important crossing safer and more visible for everyone.

Construction work in progress at a parking lot with caution tape, orange barrels, and machinery, near a shopping area with a pharmacy store visible in the background.

19th Avenue Railway Crossing Advocacy

Persistent Advocacy for Safer Roads

For several years, residents have shared concerns about the condition of the 19th Avenue railway crossing in Ward 2 and the damage it can cause to vehicles. Although responsibility is shared between York Region and CN Rail, I have continued working with both organizations to keep this issue moving forward and advocate for meaningful improvements.

Building Strong Communities

Kozak Park

Investing in Our Neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood parks play an important role in bringing people together. I was pleased to support the improvements at Kozak Park and to keep residents informed throughout the project so they could see how the investment would enhance this important community gathering place for years to come.

Kozak Park in Ward 2 Richmond Hill with Blue picnic tables and a blue playground slide under large blue umbrellas on a concrete patio in a park with trees and a fenced grassy area.

Bus Shelters Near the Food Bank

A Small Change That Makes a Big Difference

Residents brought forward concerns about the lack of bus shelters outside the Richmond Hill Food Bank, where many people—including seniors and families with groceries—were left waiting in all kinds of weather. After working with York Region Transit, new shelters have now been installed, providing greater comfort and dignity for those who rely on public transit.

Connecting & Remembering

Eco Family Fest

Bringing Our Community Together

I created Eco Family Fest in conjunction with Climate Action Richmond Hill to bring families together for a fun day of learning about sustainability, local organizations, and community involvement. The event has welcomed thousands of residents while supporting local environmental initiatives and showcasing the many groups working to make Richmond Hill an even better place to live.

Scott Thompson, Councillor Ward 2' and 'Eco Family'. The stage has flags on the left and various items on the right, with a bright blue sky overhead.

Community Safety Town Hall

Connecting Residents with the Experts

Community safety is one of the issues I hear about most often from residents. That's why I organized a Community Safety Town Hall, bringing together representatives from York Regional Police, Richmond Hill Fire, York Region, and City staff to answer questions, share information, and help residents better understand the services available to them.

People gathered in a meeting room, some sitting and some standing, engaged in conversations. There are security personnel and a woman with curly hair and glasses among the crowd.

Spooky Village: Trick or Treat

Making Memories in the Village

Spooky Village is one of those events I always enjoy because it brings so many parts of our community together. Families come out, local businesses get involved, and the Village feels busy, welcoming and connected.

For me, supporting events like this is about helping create more opportunities for neighbours to spend time together, make memories and feel a stronger connection to the community we all share.

Group of people gathered outside with a person in a T-Rex dinosaur costume. The group is diverse, some smiling, some looking serious, in front of a brick building with trees.

PS752 Memorial

Honouring Lives / Supporting Community

The tragedy of Flight PS752 deeply affected many families in Richmond Hill. I have been proud to support the creation of the memorial at Unity Park, which will provide a permanent place for remembrance, reflection, and healing while honouring the lives of all those who were lost.

A smiling elderly man with a bald head and gray beard, wearing a white dress shirt, stands against a blue background.

Hi, I’m Scott Thompson.

“Here are some examples of how I've worked to make Richmond Hill a safer, stronger, and more connected community.”