Richmond Hill Mayor Dave Barrow announces retirement after 6 months on medical leave

"I love Richmond Hill. It has truly been an honour and a privilege to serve this great city."

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 15, 2021
Yoyo Yan

The dust finally settles.

After more than six months on medical leave, Richmond Hill Mayor Dave Barrow announced "with a heavy heart" his retirement from city council, effective Sept. 15, 2021.

At a Feb. 24 council meeting, Barrow brought forward a time-sensitive motion to ask for a medical leave of absence from his role for an indefinite period of time following his doctor's advice.

His motion was approved by council members.

Regional Coun. Joe DiPaola has been the acting mayor since Feb. 25.

Barrow's extended period of leave caused some speculation about his retirement.

However, Barrow provided a response email to a June 9 council meeting, indicating that he was hoping to return to work at the end of summer.

On Sept. 8, Barrow attended the city's first special council meeting after the summer break and presented a member motion to cut one of the two deputy mayors.

The motion was approved by the majority of council and, consequently, DiPaola will be the only deputy mayor for the remainder of the current 2018 to 2022 term of council.

Regional Coun. Carmine Perrelli will no longer be a deputy mayor.

For some council members, Barrow's move was seen as an indicator for his retirement.

In his retirement statement, Barrow said it was "an incredibly difficult decision to make" after serving as Richmond Hill mayor for 15 years and dedicating more than 35 years to the community.

"I was grateful to return to council last week, after having been away for several months. However, following that meeting, and after much consideration, I have decided to step down from my duties to allow more time to focus on my family."

Barrow extended his gratitude to council members, city staff, regional council members and all those who have helped him support the city and its residents and businesses every day.

"I love Richmond Hill. It has truly been an honour and a privilege to serve this great city."

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

First elected mayor in 2006, Barrow has been serving his fourth term as mayor, which was to conclude on Nov. 14, 2022.

Barrow's retirement announcement sparked emotions in the community and some residents took to social media to share their stories and sentiments.

"We'll miss Mayor Dave's calm and seasoned energy on council. I will personally always be thankful for his support as we advocated for off leash parks for the residents and their 4-legged family members," wrote Adriana Pisano Beaumont.

"He made every small community engagement effort feel special and worthwhile. Thank you for your many years of service and guidance. Enjoy your retirement and your family time in good health."