Accountability
Championed Accountability
Launched a new Service Charter, establishing strict turnaround timelines across 40 City service areas to improve accountability and provide residents with accessible and responsive support.
Re-Elect
Godwin CHAN
Regional Councillor
October 20-26, 2026
Our City. Our Region. Our Future.
Seeking Re-election
Our City. Our Region. Our Future.
Having served my first full term representing Richmond Hill at the York Regional Council, I am keenly aware that York Region's core services — public safety, public health, community services, and public transit — are crucial to serving the needs of local businesses and residents. The next term is poised for significant change as York Region is expected to undertake a governance review that would reshape service delivery.
I am committed to ensuring that investments made in policing, infrastructure, affordable housing at York Region this term be protected, and I am seeking your support so that I can continue to strengthen meaningful engagement with the York Regional Police and community stakeholders to make Richmond Hill safer and stronger.
About Godwin Chan
Godwin Chan has served as a dedicated public servant in Richmond Hill since 2006, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in legal and public services. He currently serves as Deputy Mayor and Regional and Local Councillor of the City of Richmond Hill, Chair of the Economic Development Committee, Co-Chair of the York Region Human Services Planning Board, and also as Director of the Housing York Inc. and the York Region Rapid Transit Corporation.
Throughout his public service, Chan has championed initiatives that have delivered lasting benefits to the community. He played a leading role in securing National Historic Site designation for the David Dunlap Observatory in 2017, and founded the Yonge North Group to champion the Yonge North Subway extension since 2008. He takes pride in advocating for Age-Friendly Community Strategy to promote active independent living for seniors and Service Charter to strengthen transparency, accountability, and customer service. His community volunteerism includes co-founding Richmond Hill Road Watch and establishing the St. John Ambulance Youth Cadets Unit in Richmond Hill.
At the national level, Chan has served as a Director of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and has contributed to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario's Healthy Democracy project since its inception, providing strategic advice on local governance and civic engagement.
Recognition & Awards
2016: RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award
2017: Canada 150 Community Leader recognition
2022: Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Award
2026: Canada Strong Medal
Education
Juris Doctor (JD) — Osgoode Hall Law School of York University
Master's Degree in Public Administration (MPA) — Harvard University
Proven Leadership.
Real Results.
Since being elected citywide in 2022, I have focused on enhancing accountability, strengthening public safety, and improving community services. Together, we are building a better future for our City and our Region.
My Proven Track Record
Community Heritage
Fostered Community-Spirit
Celebrate New Year with the community at the annual levy to present new initiatives and seek public input.Spearheaded the revival of the 147-year-old Spring Fair, modernizing the annual event to increase community participation and attract 5,000 attendees in 2025.
Seniors
Supported Seniors
Created the Age-Friendly Community (AFC) Strategy through my targeted Member Motion, and implemented the AFC Advisory Council to drive inclusive policy and develop programs and services that better meet the needs of older adults.
Public Safety
Enhanced Safety
Led the York Region Human Services Planning Board to collaborate with York Regional Police to advance and strengthen the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan. Initiated recognition of Neighbourhood Watch and first responders to build community partnerships, and promote a culture of proactive safety.
Endorsements
Dr. Reza Moridi
Former MPP Richmond Hill
Having known Godwin Chan for more than 20 years, I am proud to offer my wholehearted endorsement of his re-election as Richmond Hill's representative on York Region Council.
As a former elected representative, I have had the privilege of working alongside many public servants over the years. Few have matched Godwin's dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the people they serve. He approaches every issue with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for residents. Rather than focusing on politics, he focuses on solutions.
Richmond Hill is fortunate to have a highly accomplished, Harvard-educated leader who has chosen to devote his talents, energy, and experience to public service. His proven track record, vision for the future, and commitment to our community make him exceptionally qualified to continue representing us at York Region.
Rev. Dr. Sam Chan
Founder and Retired Senior Pastor, Richmond Hill Christian Community Church
Experienced Leadership
Godwin is an experienced, trustworthy and reliable member of the Council. He knows how to work with others in difficult situations patiently, never gives up and is motivated to bring harmony, respect, civility and ultimately resulting a more effective Council and a stronger and more vibrant city of Richmond Hill. Godwin is not only a politician, but also a learner in area of Executive Leadership and Government, bringing new ideas and strategic thinking from people in different countries.
Responsive Service
Godwin works for the people of Richmond Hill and the welfare of the York Region. Genuine listening, keen evaluation and responsive feedback are the characteristics of his leadership. His accomplishments are many, such as Age-friendly community services, promotion of community engagement and participation in building a good city. Capital investment in Yonge subway extension led by Metrolinx, rapid transits etc. are some of the other key endeavours he is still working on. National Housing strategy, infrastructure and permanent funding are areas he has shown good results in serving the Region and beyond.
Proven Results Now and Future
Godwin knows working with integrity, patience and a clear mind through communication and persuasion are necessary in government services. He will remain in this Process, find ways to be Present, understand the Purpose of all these and Passionately work at them for Richmond Hill, York Region and the people he serves. I endorse Godwin Chan to be re-elected as the next Regional Councillor of Richmond Hill.
Fergie Reynolds
Board Chair, Richmond Hill Community Food Bank
I am proud to express my support for Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan and the outstanding leadership he continues to demonstrate within our community.
His dedication to serving residents is evident in everything he does. He is a strong advocate for community initiatives and consistently supports causes that make a meaningful difference in people's lives. What I find sets him apart is his honesty, integrity, and approachable leadership style. He listens respectfully and communicates openly. His willingness to champion these causes reflects his genuine commitment to building a stronger, more caring community.
Heidi Kreiner-Ley
Local Business Owner and Resident
I have known Godwin Chan since our early days together as School Council Chairs, working hard to get Richmond Hill's first Catholic High School and fighting to get our children back in the classroom during challenging times.
Godwin has always been committed to our community. He is honest, hardworking and has integrity in all that he does. Godwin's dedication on our Council for 20 years provides him with great experience. I am confident that Godwin will serve our City of Richmond Hill well at Regional Council.
Justin Poy
Community Leader
I have known Godwin Chan for more than 20 years as both a friend and a respected public servant. As Chair of the Economic Development Committee and a director of Housing York Inc. and York Region Rapid Transit, Godwin has developed the experience and leadership needed to be a strong and effective voice at City Hall. His commitment to accountability and transparency has earned the trust and respect of the community.
A recipient of the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award and a graduate of Harvard University with a Master's degree in Public Administration, Godwin exemplifies public service, integrity, and dedication.
Carmen James
Administrator, Richmond Training Centre
I am pleased to endorse Godwin Chan's candidacy for re-election as Regional Councillor for Richmond Hill. I have known Godwin for over 20 years, and I have had the opportunity to see his commitment to keep the city evolving. Godwin has devoted his time and commitment to the City of Richmond Hill from his time as Councillor to Deputy Mayor and Regional Councillor.
His record with public service speaks volumes with his knowledge, experience, honesty, integrity and dedication to the community. There is no better candidate for Regional Councillor than Godwin Chan, a man for the City to help move it into the next 4 years. I strongly support Godwin Chan!
Bruce Rhodes
Richmond Hill Resident
I have lived in Richmond Hill since 1995, and have been a resident for all of the time that Godwin Chan has served on Richmond Hill Council. I have attended numerous Council meetings over those years, and can attest that Godwin has always been a steadying influence on Council proceedings. He addresses issues in a thoughtful and respectful manner, and engages in a meaningful way with the community. I look forward to voting for Godwin in the upcoming municipal election.
Costas Menegakis
Oak Ridges Resident
As a resident of Richmond Hill and in my personal capacity as a citizen, I am pleased to offer my support for Councillor Godwin Chan as he seeks re-election. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to know Godwin and witness his dedication to serving the residents of Richmond Hill. He has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, listening to residents, and working to address the issues that matter most to our community.
I believe Godwin's experience, integrity, and commitment to the people he represents make him a strong choice for Richmond Hill residents. His record of service reflects a genuine desire to make a positive difference and continue contributing to the success of our city. Municipal elections are decided by the residents of Richmond Hill, and I encourage everyone to participate, learn about the candidates, and make their voices heard. I wish Godwin every success in the upcoming election.
Henry Chui
Local Business Owner and Resident
As Chair of the Canadian Asian Heritage Association (CAHA), President of The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association (TCCSA), and Immediate Past President of the Markham, Richmond Hill & Vaughan Chinese Business Association (MRVCBA), I am pleased to offer my wholehearted endorsement for the re-election of Godwin Chan as Regional Councillor for the City of Richmond Hill.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with Godwin on numerous community initiatives and have witnessed firsthand his integrity, dedication, and commitment to public service. He has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and a genuine desire to improve the lives of residents throughout Richmond Hill and York Region. As a strong supporter of multicultural communities, Godwin understands the value of diversity and has always been approachable, responsive, and willing to work alongside community organizations to create opportunities that benefit everyone.
I am confident that Godwin Chan will continue to serve Richmond Hill and York Region with integrity, vision, and dedication. It is my pleasure to endorse his re-election, and I respectfully encourage residents to support his continued leadership.
Dr. Tuba Koktay
Richmond Hill resident.
I am a resident of Ward 6 in the City of Richmond Hill and have lived in this community for the past 25 years. I have known Regional Councillor Godwin Chan since 2007, when he began serving our community as Ward 6 Councillor. Over the years, I have come to know him as a trustworthy, dedicated, and responsive representative who genuinely listens to the needs and concerns of his community. Councillor Chan has always been approachable and willing to take action when residents bring forward important issues. For example, during his first term as Ward 6 Councillor, my neighbours and I raised concerns about the need for a traffic light at the intersection of Melville Avenue and Bantry Avenue, near Langstaff Community Centre and Park. Councillor Chan responded to our concerns and helped bring a traffic light to the intersection in a relatively short period of time, making it safer for schoolchildren, parents, and other residents crossing in the area.
On a larger scale, Councillor Chan has also been a long-time advocate for preserving the David Dunlap Observatory (DDO) lands. He played an instrumental role in supporting efforts to have the DDO lands recognized for their national historic significance in 2019. My husband and I are both astronomers, and we enjoy sharing our knowledge and passion for astronomy with our community. We participate in community events by setting up our telescopes for public viewing of celestial objects and by offering science-related educational activities throughout Richmond Hill. Councillor Chan has been a long-time supporter of our work and has welcomed us to bring our equipment and educational activities to his annual SummerFest and Spring Festival events.
Based on my many years of knowing and working with Godwin Chan, I am pleased to offer him my wholehearted endorsement. I believe he is an experienced, dedicated, and highly qualified representative who understands our community and works hard on behalf of its residents. I strongly support Godwin Chan as an excellent choice for Regional Councillor in the upcoming municipal election in Richmond Hill.
Margaret Hall
Condominium Director
As a long time supporter of Mr. Godwin Chan for many years as my local councillor , I would like to enlist my support for his re-election as Regional Councillor for Richmond Hill. As a Director on the board of a condominium corporation which borders Yonge Street, I have continued to watch his dedication to our community through his periodic news flyers which outlines his priorities and the direction of the council as it governs the larger community. I also have had occasion to solicit his guidance in solving situations that have arisen along this busy thoroughfare. He also has been willing to consider my concerns about my local issues, as the current leadership of our ward does not publish updates as was the method which Mr. Chan employed to lead our ward for many years. His transparency with constituents is highly laudable as noted in his election slogan.
It is important in this day of major change in the communities of York region that we value the experience which a councillor brings to the council. We are entering a period of rapid growth in population, a rising community of condominiums, and the traffic congestion this brings to our formerly quiet communities. Mr. Chan has served on many committees at the regional level in his first term that are directly impacted by these changes and has shown leadership in major developments such as the extension of the subway to Richmond Hill. I heartily endorse his candidacy for regional councillor of York Region. and commend him for his honesty, dedication and work ethic on our behalf.
Roy Doobay, CPA, CGA
Long-time Richmond Hill Resident (41 Years)
Over the years, I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Godwin Chan, first as my local councillor and now as our Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Richmond Hill. As Co-Chair and Treasurer of the Richmond Hill Road Watch Committee and a strong advocate for road safety, I have personally seen Godwin's commitment to our community. He is hardworking, approachable, and responsive, and has been supportive of our efforts while taking the time to listen to residents and community organizations.
Godwin is committed to his work and genuinely interested in our community. He brings a high level of energy to what he does and clearly enjoys serving the residents of Richmond Hill. Having called Richmond Hill home for 41 years and served our community in various capacities, I have seen firsthand Godwin's contributions to our community over the years. I am pleased to endorse Godwin Chan for re-election as Regional Councillor for Richmond Hill. I believe his experience, dedication, and commitment to our community make him a strong choice for residents.
Getting Things Done
Godwin Chan's Accomplishments and Commitments to Richmond Hill
Attentive Service Matters
- Delivered commitment to improve services delivery to the public in an accountable, open and transparent manner by setting out clear timelines on service standards and tangible deliverables. Introduced Member Motion to direct staff to develop a Service Charter at the first meeting of this term of 2022-2026 on January 25, 2023.
- Service Charter was launched in January 2025 – Commitments made! Commitments delivered!
Transparent Fiscal Management Matters
- Directed staff to prepare a Budget Consultation Plan as part of the annual budgeting process
- Held consultation session at Oak Ridges library on York Region and Richmond Hill Budgets; Staff undertook online survey to seek public input
- Serve on York Region Audit Committee to review fiscal management of $5.2 billion budgets; Advocated for internal audit at Richmond Hill to ensure responsible use of public funds
Community Safety Matters
- Organized City Watch sessions on Frauds and Scams with York Regional Police Financial Crime Unit, Community Safety and Personal Protection from Crime Prevention and Seniors Support Officers
- Provided strategic input to the Chief of Police as Co-Chair of York Region Human Services Planning Board on Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
- Supported the increase in York Regional Police budgets to enable hiring of additional officers and upgrading technology support to combat crime
- Recognized Local Safety Heroes, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and captains of the Neighbourhood Watch, who have contributed to safe communities by fostering stronger collaboration for community policing
Traffic Safety Matters
- Secured funding commitments for York Region Capital Project to design and construct Elgin Mills East Road overpass as a priority in 2027-28
- Proudly secured approval from York Regional Police, Richmond Hill and Road Watch to install the road safety signs at Yonge and Bayview intersections
- Advocated improvements for traffic movement and road safety: Bathurst Street, 19th Avenue, Bayview Avenue, Stouffville Road, Elgin Mills Road, 16th Avenue and Major Mackenzie Road – under York Region Capital Projects and Good Roads plan
Shovel-on-the-Ground Matters
- Moved in March 2025 to introduce sunset clause as part of site-specific zoning bylaw to help accelerate housing supply so that approved planning applications that fail to begin construction within a specified time period would be rescinded.
- The Province made legislative changes that address this issue later in the year.
Age-Friendly Community Matters
- Championed Age Friendly Community to promote active, independent living for seniors by submitting a Member Motion and writing the article published in the Municipal World magazine in January 2024.
- City adopted Age-Friendly Community (AFC) Strategy, and established AFC Council comprised of seniors to provide input to new City programs serving older adults such as Coffee Chats and interest groups.
- Organized Senior Health and Safety Fair with York Regional Police, York Region Public Health, Community and Social Services, York Paramedics and Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services to help seniors and caregivers navigate various support systems, including dental services to qualified seniors at the Regional health clinic in Richmond Hill.
"Women, Life, Freedom" Matters
- Proposed to declare the Mahsa Amini Memorial Day on September 16, 2023, the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Jina Amini that led to the unprecedented gathering of 50,000 Iranian Canadians in Richmond Hill on October 1, 2022.
- Moved to install a bench with a plaque and plant a tree to commemorate Mahsa Jina Amini – Member Motion unanimously adopted by Council.
- Held the commemorative ceremony with the Iranian Canadian community to unveil the plaque honouring Mahsa Jina Amini at the bench in the shadow of the planted tree (at the parkette overlooking the area where massive demonstration took place in October 2022).
Respect for Diversity
- Moved at York Regional Council to adopt zero-tolerance approach to any form of hate against residents; celebrated diversity under Inclusion Charter of York Region
- an active participant in multicultural and multifaith activities - engaging as a community builder attending cultural festivals, interfaith dialogues, and intercultural workshops to foster mutual respect, stronger community belonging and shared understanding among diverse groups.
Mentoring Students and Supporting Youth
- Joined York Region Mentoring Plus Strategy to act as a one-on-one mentor to high school students and youth for advice on careers
- Participated in events organized by Richmond Hill Youth Action Group, high school youth leadership teams and an educational forum for youth
Economic Growth Matters
- Served as Council liaison at the Richmond Hill Board of Trade's Government Relations Committee, and presented the business support initiatives and programs
- Active participant in the Richmond Hill Board of Trade "After Five" business network, and the Business Improvement Area's activities to help boost local businesses and promote economic vitality
- Visited local businesses in multiple sectors to build and solidify relationships for enhancing job creations, attracting investments, and connecting with entrepreneurs to foster innovations in startups and scale-up operations.
- Supported the winter Merry Market, featuring artists and creative-sector vendors, where the City sealed Richmond Hill 150 time capsule which I had initiated through my Member Motion, to enrich the cultural milieu of Richmond Hill.
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