Richmond Hill - September 25, 2009
BY ADAM MC LEAN, yorkregion.com
Despite economic woes, business grows, says mayor
It has been a year of growth, while future business blossoms throughout Richmond Hill, said Mayor Dave Barrow during his annual Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce mayor address.
His speech at the Richmond Hill Country Club Friday afternoon acknowledged the growth of business within the town during the last 12 months and the vision to create and cope with the Richmond Hill of tomorrow.
Last year's speech centred around weathering the turbulent economic times that lay ahead and as that page has nearly been turned, Mr. Barrow was pleased to announce that despite a tough global economy, Richmond Hill experienced yet another year of business growth.
"In the last ten years total business in Richmond Hill has expanded 30 per cent. We expanded yet again this year by a half per cent. It may not sound like much, but given the economics of the last year, growth - no matter what the percentage - should be applauded," Mr. Barrow said.
Mr. Barrow attributed this statistic to money and energy saving initiatives by the town and residents, establishment of the Village of Richmond Hill Business Improvement Area, as well as the opening and expansion of many local businesses including Compugen, Cosmo Music and Ash City, to name a few.
Also, funding from provincial and federal governments through recreational and municipal infrastructure funding grants helped create new jobs. The upcoming network of VIVA bus lanes along Hwy. 7 and Yonge Street, subway expansion, along with the $57 million of current construction projects in the town can bring even more business opportunities to Richmond Hill.
Business representatives were also reminded of important cultural and social initiatives, such as the new performing arts centre, protection of the Observatory lands and Access Richmond Hill.
Preparedness plans for a possible upcoming H1N1 pandemic were also discussed.
Mr. Barrow pointed out that Richmond Hill residents and businesses keep Richmond Hill an attractive community with its own character. It is a relationship he is confident can grow even closer.
"It's encouraging to know that we can approach this future together and we encourage the continued communication and ideas from all our residents. Together we make Richmond Hill strong," Mr. Barrow added.
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