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Re-elect Karen Cilevitz - Monday, October 26, 2026
Experienced . Engaged . Effective
Testimonials & Endorsements
TESTIMONIALS & ENDORSEMENTS 2026
As a resident of Ward 5 and a former Richmond Hill Councillor, I’ve had the opportunity to see first hand the time and effort Karen Cilevitz puts into our community.
I appreciate her strong work ethic, her commitment to staying involved with residents, and her support of a wide variety of community causes and initiatives that make a true difference to the betterment of our community.
I’m happy to support Karen and the work she continues to do for Richmond Hill.
Raika Sheppard
Ward 5 resident
I have lived in Richmond Hill for over 40 years and Karen Cilevitz has been the best Councillor we have had in Ward 5.
She is responsive and is knowledgeable about the issues affecting the residents from traffic problems, garbage collection, to development.
I also served on the Richmond Hill Heritage Committee with Ms. Cilevitz. She attended all the meetings and came prepared to inform the Committee's recommendations.
I endorse Karen Cilevitz for Councillor, Ward 5.
Enid Mills
Ward 5 resident
We had found ourselves bogged down and frustrated in the middle of a site plan amendment application that was dragging on. We lacked both the experience and the voice to make consistent progress.
When I contacted Councillor Cilevitz, I was grateful for the speed and urgency with which she responded. She immediately escalated our concerns and helped get our application un-stuck.
I would have been content with that help, but then she took the time to make a personal visit. She patiently walked me through some of the hurdles of the application process, gave needed context to issues which had been a mystery, and assured me that she would continue to lend a voice to our concerns.
I’m grateful for the passion and enthusiasm with which Karen serves Ward 5.
Paul Sadler
Lead Pastor - Grace Baptist Church of Richmond Hill, Ward 5
Karen has been a true friend to JYN and to so many members of our community.
She is accessible, caring, responsive and, most importantly, someone who takes action when people need her.
Her commitment to Richmond Hill and to making our community a better place for everyone is genuine, and we are truly grateful for her friendship, collaboration and years of community service.
Rabbi Shmuli Nachlas
Executive Director, Jewish Youth Network - Ward 5, Richmond Hill
Consistent. Committed. Capable. Courageous.
I met Karen many years ago when she was first running for office as a City Councillor.
Over the years she has displayed a fierce commitment to the residents of Ward 5.
A great communicator, she has proven herself to be accessible and responsive to the needs of the residents of Ward 5.
She gets things done quickly and effectively, even under extremely difficult circumstances.
She has my vote.
Larry Green
Ward 5 Resident
I have been a supporter of Ward 5 Councillor Karen Cilevitz since she first ran.
She continually shows, through her words and actions, that she cares for the City of Richmond Hill and for the needs of her constituents.
I do not always agree with her position but welcome the dialogue and debate when I raise my concerns. She is very approachable and ready to openly discuss city issues and her constituents’ concerns; you can’t get more open and honest than that. She generally convinces me that her position is correct and I am missing some pertinent facts.
I have checked out her competitors’ positions and their platforms and it saddens me that their rhetoric is littered with populist verbiage and ideas. Karen’s approach is always well thought out and has a realistic chance of success.
It is my pleasure to endorse Karen Cilevitz for re-election as Ward 5 Councillor.
Ross Toms
Ward 5 Resident for 25+ years
Karen Cilevitz brings energy and passion to her role as Ward 5 Councillor.
Her unwavering dedication and commitment consistently shine through when addressing the needs of Ward 5.
With a strong record of community involvement and experience gained from three terms on Richmond Hill City Council, Karen is a proven leader.
Her extensive connections within our community and genuine care for residents’ concerns drive her to find effective solutions.
Ward 5 is truly fortunate to benefit from Karen’s expertise and leadership on Council.
I am proud to endorse Karen Cilevitz for re-election as Ward 5 Councillor because her leadership has consistently delivered results that matter to Ward 5 and to Richmond Hill.
Maureen Capotosto
Ward 5 Resident
What makes Karen Cilevitz effective as a Councillor is not only her warmth, energy and enthusiasm, and her ability to listen, but her determination to act.
For example, there have been many instances when her presence has inspired hope and resilience among vulnerable citizens and their families. Her role as Master of Ceremonies at the Open House held by the Richmond Hill Supportive Housing Collaboration is just one example.
Karen approaches every challenge with empathy, informed judgment, and a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to our community. Whether it’s championing opportunities that uplift the vulnerable, fostering economic growth, or to protect our environment, she leads with both heart and intellect.
Her track record speaks for itself, but it is her vision of an inclusive Richmond Hill that inspires me the most.
Kathleen Mochnacki
Chair - Richmond Hill Supportive Housing Collaboration (RHSHC )
Ward 5 Resident
To the Constituents of Ward 5, Richmond Hill:
I first met Karen Cilevitz in 2016 when my husband and I, along with a group of friends, were in the planning stages of forming a community choir based in Richmond Hill, since no such organization existed in Richmond Hill at that time.
Since we lived in Ward 5, we contacted Karen, the current Ward 5 Councillor, and told her of our plans, which were still in the early stages. She was very supportive, actually coming to our home to sit down in person to hear what we had accomplished so far. Once we had the fledgling group up and running with a professional conductor and a rehearsal venue, we began planning our very first concert for December 2016. Karen purchased a full-page ad in our concert program, attended the concert and addressed the audience, welcoming the choir, now named “Chorus York”, to our community.
Since that time she has continued to support us by continuing to purchase ads in our concert programs and regularly attending our concerts. I am aware that she also supports other local musicians and musical groups in our community.
Every year from 2016 to 2019 she hired Chorus York to sing “O Canada” at her annual outdoor concert, “Voices From the Hill”. The event was not held from 2020 to 2022, due to the pandemic. Once the event resumed in 2023, we were once again hired to perform.
This past year this event was held indoors, due to weather concerns, and once again, Karen hired us along with another local musical group, to sing a 40 minute concert which included “O Canada” as the opener. This was a free event held at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, complete with refreshments, and open to everyone in the community. Although the event was free to all wishing to attend, we were well-paid for our performance. Karen has always demonstrated an awareness that performing groups are constantly in need of funding in order to continue to function.
If asked about the impact Karen has had on Chorus York I would have to say it would be the confidence and resiliency she has inspired in us by her unwavering positivity, constant support and her belief that we could overcome any obstacle in our path regardless of difficulty. For this we will always be grateful.
In conclusion, I consider Karen to be a good listener and a dedicated supporter of the Arts. She is actively involved in our community and is sensitive to the needs of her constituents.
I have no hesitation in endorsing her campaign to run for re-election as Councillor for Ward 5 in the upcoming municipal election.
Mary-Lou Montgrain
Ward 5 Resident
Chorus York Principal
I’ve known Karen for almost ten years and during that time she has been totally engaged in helping residents of Ward 5. She is quick to intervene in City matters when needed.
On a personal level she has treated me with nothing but respect, concern and friendship. I have worked with Karen on many projects: her signature Musicfest event, Ward 5 Civic Engagement Committee to name a couple. She helped us form the Mayvern Area Residents Association.
The one characteristic I love about Karen is her ability to say what she means: she does not beat around the bush; she is outspoken and direct, yet at the same time honest and truthful.
Thank you, Karen, for your past contributions to Council and to Ward 5. I look forward to supporting you and working with you in the next term of office.
Pat Pollock
Ward 5 Resident
As Ward 5 Councillor, Karen Cilevitz has shown she truly cares for her constituents and the City of Richmond Hill.
She is an honest and involved politician.
She is truly engaged and supports many city initiatives. Karen is approachable, available and happy to assist her constituents.
I confidently endorse Karen for re-election as Ward 5 Councillor.
Craig Lee
Ward 5 Resident
I have known Karen Cilevitz, Councillor for Ward 5 in Richmond Hill, for approximately four years through community and local activities in Richmond Hill. During that time, I have found her to be professional, approachable, and respectful in her interactions with residents. She has always been willing to listen and engage with members of the community.
In my personal interactions with Karen, I have appreciated her responsiveness and her willingness to take the time to acknowledge questions and concerns raised by residents. She has consistently conducted herself in a courteous and professional manner and has demonstrated a genuine interest in community matters.
Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to observe her participation in local events and community initiatives. I have found her to be accessible, respectful of differing viewpoints, and committed to maintaining open communication with members of the community.
I appreciate the opportunity to have known her and wish her continued success as she seeks to further her years of public service, she definitely has my vote!
Mahsa Ahmari
Ward 5 Resident
My wife and I have lived in Ward 5 since 2005, and we have been so lucky to have Karen Cilevitz as our Councillor!
Whether we needed support around aggressive and disruptive door-to-door marketing, landscaping issues or Covid-19 safety protocols, Karen has always lent an ear, and had our back!
In the last eleven years, she has become one of the family - the kids know her by name, and recognize her face from a distance...she is ever present, always smiling and approachable. Richmond Hill needs more Karens!
Mike Jacques
Ward 5 Resident
I’ve been a resident of Richmond Hill since 2004 and have had the opportunity to stay engaged in our community over the years, including my involvement in school council since the 2018–2019 school year. Through this time, I’ve had the privilege of knowing Karen Cilevitz, even prior to her role as Ward 5 Councillor, and have consistently seen her genuine commitment to supporting the local community.
Navigating municipal processes can sometimes be challenging, but Karen has always been approachable and willing to work through the details alongside residents. In my experience, she has been a reliable point of contact when sharing concerns or recognizing positive efforts within our local services, and she has always taken the time to listen and respond thoughtfully.
Karen’s support for school and community initiatives has also stood out. She has been present, engaged, and supportive of local events and celebrations, helping to strengthen the connection between the community and the city.
What I appreciate most is that Karen is not only a strong listener, but someone who takes action. She works to move ideas forward and, when challenges arise, remains committed to working with council to find solutions or ensure important issues are brought into meaningful discussion.
Based on these experiences, I personally support Karen and intend to stand behind her in the upcoming 2026 municipal election.
Chris Mottoo
Ward 5 Resident
Karen has and continues to be a phenomenal Ward 5 Councillor. We are blessed to have her, she gets it done quickly and efficiently. Karen is kind and patient. I would endorse her re-election 100%.
Tino Perciballi
Ward 5 Resident
In May 2025 an event happened at my condo complex that resulted in a significant number of first responders needed at the scene. Within minutes Councillor Cilevitz called and her first words were “How can I help?” She did not know what had happened but knew it was serious and offered as much help as would be needed in this situation.
This is a clear testament to Councillor Cilevitz’s commitment to her constituents and her City and this absolute dedication has been a constant in her years at City Council.
She deserves my vote and yours.
Michael Grit
Ward 5 Resident
Having lived in Ward 5, Richmond Hill for the past 35 years, I fully support Karen for all she has done in the Ward.
From contacting her for illegal dumping in the parks or on the street to City of Richmond Hill queries, Karen has always responded immediately and resolved any and all issues.
I 100% endorse Karen for re-election in Ward 5.
Peter O’Desse
Ward 5 Resident
Karen has been an amazing Councillor for Ward 5. Whenever I have an issue, I know that she will take care of it. It saves a lot of unnecessary stress when you try to deal with the City and their employees aren't being extremely cooperative.
Karen is the only elected official that I will allow to put a sign on my lawn to vote for her.
Aaron Berger
Ward 5 Resident
MONDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - WARD 5 VOTER INFO
MUNICIPAL ELECTION 2026 VOTING INFORMATION -
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Online Voting For All Residents 2026
Online voting via electronic devices will take place from Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 10 a.m. to Voting Day, Monday, October 26, 2026 at 8 p.m.
In-Person Voting For Ward 5 Residents 2026
In-person voting by paper ballot and vote tabulators will take place at RICHVALE COMMUNITY CENTRE, 160 AVENUE ROAD, RICHMOND HILL on:
Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
OR
Monday, October 26, 2026,10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ASSISTANCE TO GET TO RICHVALE CC
TO VOTE IN-PERSON DAY- OF, CONTACT KAREN AT:
Karen.Cilevitz@rogers.com
647-296-7582
12 YEARS OF VITAL EXPERIENCE TO INVEST YOUR CONTINUED TRUST
12 YEARS OF ENGAGED DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE
12 YEARS OF EFFECTIVE PROVEN LEADERSHIP WITH DEPENDABLE
RESULTS
Ward 5
