Joe DiPaola – Your Trusted Advocate for Richmond Hill

With a legacy of dedicated service spanning over two decades, Joe DiPaola has been a steadfast advocate for the residents of Richmond Hill. He has tirelessly championed the town through multiple terms on the Richmond Hill City Council, and he continues his unwavering commitment as the current Regional and Local Councillor.

A Rich History of Public Service

Joe’s journey in public service commenced in 1997 when he was first elected as a voice for Richmond Hill residents. Over the years, his commitment to the town has remained unwavering. He has served as the Deputy Mayor of the City of Richmond Hill, and in recognition of his leadership, he was appointed Acting Mayor from 2021 to 2022.

Rooted in the Community

Joe’s connection to Richmond Hill runs deep. Since 1979, he has proudly called Richmond Hill home. His journey began on Bryson Drive at the age of 8, and he has further established his roots in the town through property ownership on Northern Heights, Hacienda, and Pexton Avenue. Today, he resides in Oak Ridges, living near the Oak Ridges Community Centre with his family.

A Community-Focused Leader

Growing up in Richmond Hill, Joe was not just a resident; he was an active participant in the community. His involvement in various sports, including hockey and baseball, led him to represent the town on different teams. His strong family-oriented values and genuine concern for the well-being of the community have made him a respected and beloved figure.

Key Roles in Public Service

Throughout his illustrious career in public service, Joe has actively contributed to numerous town committees. Notably, he served as the Chair of the Budget Committee, was involved with York Housing Inc., and the York Region Planning Advisory Committee. His dedication extended to the Oak Ridges Library Board, the Committee of the Whole, the Road Watch Committee, the Grid Lock Task Force, and the Canada Day Committee. During his time as Acting Mayor, he also sat on the Boards of Directors of the Toronto Region Conservation Authority and York Region Transit Authority.

Financial Stewardship

One of Joe’s remarkable achievements was his role as the Chair of the Budget Committee of the Whole. He consistently advocated for efficiency to reduce costs and ease the tax burden on residents. During the challenging times of the COVID pandemic, he spearheaded efforts to prepare a 2021 budget with a zero percent tax rate increase, a goal that many believed was unattainable. Thanks to the dedication of the Budget Committee, Richmond Hill now boasts one of the lowest tax rates in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Leading in Various Capacities

In his earlier council terms from 1997 to 2003, Joe held prominent roles as the Chair of the Bert Cook Fire Hall Committee and the Langstaff Discovery Centre Project. He was also actively involved in committees such as the Finance Committee, the Planning and By-Law Committee, the Accessibility Advisory Committee, the RH Heritage Committee, and the community’s Youth Advisory Committee. He contributed to regional efforts promoting anti-tobacco awareness in York Region.

Advocating for Vital Infrastructure

Joe’s staunch advocacy for the Yonge-North Subway extension led to his tireless efforts to ensure the subway’s end point station would be located in Richmond Hill during his tenure as Ward 6 Councillor. His dedication bore fruit when Metrolinx recently announced plans for two subway stations in Richmond Hill by 2030.

Active Community Engagement

Beyond his political roles, Regional Councillor DiPaola actively engages with the community, contributing to various organizations and events. He played an integral role in planning celebrations such as Canada Day, Richmond Hill’s 125th Anniversary, and the Santa Claus Parade. His support extends to charitable causes, including the Sick Children’s Hospital Foundation, the Canadian Spinal Research Organization, the Messinesi Club of Ontario, and the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority. Joe is also a former member of the Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce.

A Personal Touch

In his personal life, Joe is married to Charity, and together, they are the proud parents of their daughter, Asha. More recently, they’ve welcomed the joy of becoming grandparents. Joe’s wife, Charity, is a successful business entrepreneur actively involved in supporting numerous charitable causes.

Joe DiPaola’s commitment to Richmond Hill and his exceptional record of service make him an outstanding advocate for the community. Whether it’s reducing the tax burden on residents, promoting vital infrastructure projects, or supporting charitable endeavors, Joe’s dedication continues to leave an indelible mark on the town he proudly calls home.

2022-2026 Term – Leadership at Its Best: In his current term, from 2022 to 2026, Joe holds pivotal roles that further empower him to make a positive impact:

• Regional and Local Councillor
• Chair of Budget Committee of the Whole
• Chair of York Region’s Planning and Economic Development
• Chair of Official Plan Update Committee
• Vice Chair of Affordable Housing Strategy Implementation Committee

These key positions exemplify Joe’s dedication to advancing Richmond Hill’s future, ensuring it remains a thriving, inclusive, and vibrant community for all residents.