With the provincial election looming and public patience thinning, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has confirmed that the city will proceed with the province-mandated transition from the RCMP to the Mayor (SPS)—but not without raising serious financial and transparency concerns.
In a candid update during Monday night’s city council meeting, Mayor Locke said she has accepted the B.C. Supreme Court’s decision in May that favoured continuing the SPS transition. However, she reiterated that she still believes the process is not in the best interest of Surrey residents or taxpayers.
“We’re moving forward, but we need answers,” Locke told the council. “This transition remains imposed and unclear, with no detailed plan or confirmed costing.”
Key Takeaways from the Mayor’s Report:
- Transition Deadline: The province has ordered SPS to assume full policing duties by November 29, 2024, but Locke warns the city is still in “infancy stages” of planning.
- Unclear Financials: A Deloitte Legal report cited an estimated $75 million in annual cost differences between SPS and RCMP operations—a point Locke says cannot be ignored.
- Demand for Transparency: Locke criticized “backroom deals” and non-disclosure agreements that have plagued the transition process, calling for full public accountability.
- Independent Oversight: A new task force led by city manager Rob Costanzo will work with provincial and federal partners to chart a clearer and more fiscally responsible path forward.
“Residents Are Tired—And So Am I”
Locke acknowledged the ongoing frustration among Surrey residents, describing the situation as a political tug-of-war that has dragged on for six years.
“We’re all fatigued. Residents deserve clarity and a say in how their city is policed,” she said.
She also stressed that the city would be reviewing all budget implications ahead of the October 19 provincial election, promising a formal update in September.
What Comes Next?
Surrey’s mayor pledged that every public hearing starting in September would include a transition update. Council will continue working over the summer to expedite the process, and Locke indicated she may call additional meetings if necessary.
A Message to Victoria
Locke’s message to the provincial government was firm: “You made this decision. Nowpolitics, work with us to fund and implement it properly.”
While Surrey’s NDP MLAs downplayed the transition’s impact on the upcoming election, the mayor’s remarks suggest otherwise—especially if unanswered questions around cost and process remain hanging in the balance.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for full coverage of Surrey’s policing transition, provincial election updates, and more local governance stories.
