Statement from the Mayor: Year End Message

As we say goodbye to 2022 and hello to a brand-new year, the City of Surrey continues to go through transformative changes. Though my time in the Mayor’s chair has only just begun, the new City Council and I have taken significant action to re-establish openness, transparency and citizen participation. The Ethics Commissioner will be restored and strengthened by having more independence. The Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC) will also resume operations. A valuable asset to our City since 2007, SCDC will once again be advancing new and strategic investments in Surrey.

Policing in Surrey has been in flux over the past four years and the new City Council has taken action to end the uncertainty and added expense of creating a new police department. For 70 years, the RCMP has served this city well and the latest statistics show crime in Surrey trending downward over the past ten years. Council has voted to restore the RCMP as the police of jurisdiction for our City. By doing so, $235 million dollars in policing costs will be saved over the next 5 years, a significant savings for Surrey taxpayers in these uncertain economic times. Council is working hard with senior management to bring about these positive changes.

Citizen participation and input will also resume in earnest as we resurrect committees, in the new year, that have sat dormant for far too long. If you are interested in participating in a committee, please visit the City’s website to put your name forward. Residents and business owners will have the opportunity to have their say on the City Budget as we bring consultations into the community. Also critical to the running of a big city is transportation and housing. More public transit options will be coming to Surrey to move riders quickly and more frequently. Together with the Federal and Provincial Governments, Council is committed to addressing the need for supportive housing for our vulnerable residents and affordable housing for those looking to get into the market.

As we head into 2023, know that your City Council is here for you. Your voices will be heard. Your input will be valued and respected.

Enjoy the holidays and a Happy New Year to all.

Mayor Brenda Locke

City of Surrey