[2] West was appointed to Richmond Hill's council in 2013 to fill a vacancy, replacing Lynn Foster in Ward 4, who had moved to Connecticut.

West was selected after a 5–3 council vote, defeating former Conservative candidate Joe DiPaola on the final ballot.

[10] Following the resignation of Dave Barrow, West was elected as mayor of Richmond Hill in a by-election on January 24, 2022.

[11] He ran on his vision for the city, involving growth management, a sustainable and healthy environment, celebration of diversity, effective and efficient service delivery, council collaboration, public safety, and a flourishing arts and culture foundation.

[8] After his election, he stated that one of the most important issues he would have to tackle was the city's official plan review process.

[13] After the election, which resulted in five new members of council, West indicated his priorities would be keeping taxes low, community safety and affordable housing.