Every Community has a handful of names that are well-known to both long time residents and newcomers alike. In Richmond Hill, Barrow is such a name. David Barrow was born and raised in Richmond Hill. He attended McConaghy Public School, Richmond Hill High School and Ryerson Polytechnical Institute prior to entering the family business and Richmond Hill municipal politics.

Elgin Barrow, Dave’s father, lived his entire life in Richmond Hill and was deeply involved with the community until his death in 1985. This involvement was recognized when the Elgin Barrow Arena Complex was named in his honour. Dave, through his years of community involvement, has clearly followed in his father’s footsteps.

Dave’s political career began with his first term as Councillor of Ward 4 in 1978. He remained Councillor through to 1985 when he returned to the family business. Dave re-entered political life in 1997 by winning a Regional Council seat. He was elected Mayor on November 13, 2006.

Dave is happily married to Tomye Anne. He knows what a great place Richmond Hill is to raise a family. His children, Jennifer and Greg both live and work in Richmond Hill. The Barrow’s are very excited about the newest members of the clan and fourth generation Barrows, Jack born in the summer of 2006 and Lauren in the fall of 2008 to Greg and his wife Karen.

Dave has been involved in his community for over 30 years. He has been recognized by both the Town and the Chamber of Commerce for his contributions. A founding member of the Richmond Hill Santa Claus Parade, the Richmond Hill Terry Fox Run, the Richmond Hill Road Watch Committee and Richmond Hill Mobility/Accessibility Foundation. More recently he served as chair of York Region Police Services Board from 2002 to 2007, was appointed to GO Transit Board of Directors by the province in 2007 and currently sits as the Chair of the Yonge Street Subway Advisory Committee of York Region.