About US
A Better Richmond Hill (ABRH) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization with a mandate to encourage civic engagement and public participation in municipal issues in Richmond Hill. The group was founded by a coalition of local residents frustrated by the nature of politics in Richmond Hill who joined together to offer a new vision for governance
in our communities.
Drawn together by a mutual desire to see integrity, transparency and accountability in municipal politics, we are committed to A Better Richmond Hill that upholds democratic principles and ensures equality for all in an open and accessible way. We empower local residents who share a common vision for A Better Richmond Hill. Whether residents choose to run for office or simply want their voice heard when decisions are made about their own communities; we will support and encourage all of our neighbours who demand accessible, accountable and trustworthy leaders who, above all, serve the needs of the residents who elected them.
December 30, 2024 — Announcement: Dissolution of ‘A Better Richmond Hill’
To the Public and Residents of Richmond Hill,
“A Better Richmond Hill” (ABRH) was established as a grassroots organization to challenge developer-driven policies and advocate for democratic, transparent, and sustainable governance in our community. The organization initially achieved notable successes, including reshaping the city council during the 2022 municipal elections. The Toronto Star recognized A Better Richmond Hill as one of several standout winners in the 2022 Ontario municipal election. However, the newly elected council not only failed to fulfill their campaign promises but actively resisted efforts to implement meaningful reforms. Their actions have ultimately led to the approval of several contentious, far-reaching high-density developments and the perpetuation of inefficiencies and opaque governance practices.
These setbacks not only undermined ABRH’s pursuit of municipal reform but also rendered its mission unsustainable. Confronted with a council unwilling to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the public good, the organization concluded that the continuation of its advocacy was no longer viable. Consequently, ABRH has made the difficult decision to dissolve. Despite this outcome, the experiences and lessons from ABRH’s journey serve as both a reflection on the complexities of municipal reform and a call to action for interested residents to stay vigilant, engaged, and committed to shaping a better future for Richmond Hill.
For details, please visit the following link: A Better Richmond Hill: Lessons and Legacy in Advancing Municipal Democracy
The Board of Directors
A Better Richmond Hill
Mar 18, 2024 – ABRH Press Release Advocating for Transparency and Equity: A Better Richmond Hill Seeks Committee of Adjustment (COA) Reform
Oct 25, 2022 – Toronto Star named A Better Richmond Hill one of several standout Winners in this Ontario municipal election
Oct 07, 2022 – The Liberal Citizen group to hold 2 community rallies urging Richmond Hill to vote out ‘problematic’ council members
Oct 06, 2022 – ABRH Paid Liberal Ad (PDF version with sources hyperlinks): Do NOT Vote for Perrelli, Beros Muench
Jun 22, 2022 – Registered as A Third Party Advertiser for the 2022 Municipal Election
Jan 24, 2022 – The Liberal David West wins byelection for Richmond Hill mayor
Jan 22, 2022 – The Liberal ‘All of this needs to change’: Richmond Hill residents have great expectations for their new mayor
Jan 02, 2022 – The Liberal Richmond Hill newsmakers that created headlines in 2021
Dec 03, 2021 – News Release Richmond Hill residents join forces to elect a ‘community-minded’ mayor in upcoming byelection’
Nov 15, 2021 – Registered as A Third Party Advertiser for the 2022 Mayoral by Election
Nov 11, 2021 – A Better Richmond Hill Incorporated
May 27, 2021 – A Better Richmond Hill Established