BREAKING: Richmond Hill Mayor steps away from post on medical leave indefinitely

“This city has been my home my entire life -- it is part of who I am."

Yorkreigon.com
Feb. 25, 2021
Sheila Wang

Dave Barrow is stepping away from his role as the mayor of Richmond Hill for an indefinite period of time following his doctor’s advice.

At the Feb. 24 council meeting, Barrow brought forward a time-sensitive motion to ask for a medical leave of absence from meetings of council as well as his other rights and duties as head of council.

“I brought this motion forward because my doctor has recommended to take some time off to deal with a medical issue. Because medical issues are a private matter, I will not talk about it or take any questions,” the mayor said at council.

Starting Feb. 25, Regional Councillor Joe DiPaola will be acting mayor for the entire duration of the mayor’s absence, according to the motion.

Ward 6 Coun. Godwin Chan will act as an alternate member of regional council in place of the mayor until Barrow is able to resume his duties.

The mayor said he didn’t know how long he would have to be away, noting it could be months.

Council members, who were shocked at the announcement, approved the motion and wished Barrow a speedy recovery.

“There is no one else in the city that I’m aware of that’s had more service to this council. You’ve done an admirable job. You led the way and showed the way for myself and so many others. I appreciate everything you’ve done, and I too hope you can come back to continue very quickly,” Dipaola said.

Barrow’s political career dates back to 1978 when he served his first term as ward 4 councillor.

First elected mayor in 2006, Barrow is currently serving his fourth term as mayor of Richmond Hill, which ends on Nov. 14, 2022.

“This city has been my home my entire life -- it is part of who I am. I look forward to the day, hopefully soon, when I can return to serving our community,” Barrow said in a public statement Feb. 24

Barrow has been involved in the community for more than three decades.

He also currently serves as a member of the Toronto Region Conservation Authority Board and as a board member of the York Region Rapid Transit Corporation.

“It troubles me to step away, even temporarily, as this pandemic continues to affect our community. However, the city remains in very capable hands,” Barrow said in the statement.

The Mayor declined to comment further on the matter.