Surrey Police Board appoints Perm Jawanda as chair after resignation fallout over police chief firing. Leadership shift comes amid ongoing transition.
New Chair Chosen by Surrey Police Board
Also, the Surrey Police Board has picked a new leader. Moreover, board member Perm Jawanda will now step in as chair. So, this move comes just days after a sudden resignation shook the group. Meanwhile, the board says it is staying steady through the change.
Then, the board confirmed the decision in a public statement. In addition, members say the work of policing in Surrey continues without delay. So, daily operations remain on track.
Former Chair Steps Down in Protest
However, the leadership change follows a sharp protest resignation. Also, former chair and Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell left his role last week. Because of that, the board faced quick pressure to find a replacement.
Meanwhile, Chappell said he quit over the firing of Chief Const. Norm Lipinski. Moreover, he argued that outside pressure had gone too far. So, he said the decision process had become deeply influenced by politics.
Still, he also noted that he did not attend the special meeting where the firing was decided. As a result, tensions inside the board became public very quickly.
Police Chief Dismissal Sparks Tension
Also, the dismissal of Norm Lipinski has added more strain to an already sensitive transition. Moreover, the move highlights ongoing conflict in Surrey’s policing shift.
Meanwhile, the situation connects to long-standing debates over local policing. So, the change has not been smooth.
Then again, the decision reflects broader governance challenges. In addition, it shows how leadership disputes can shape public services.
Mayor and Police Transition at the Centre
However, the bigger backdrop involves Brenda Locke and the city’s shift away from the RCMP. Also, she had previously tried to halt the move toward a municipal force after her 2022 election win.
Meanwhile, legal challenges followed. So, the city later reached an agreement with the provincial government to continue the transition.
As well, this ongoing change continues to shape how policing is managed in Surrey. Therefore, leadership decisions carry extra weight right now.
Interim Leadership and Next Steps
Also, the Surrey Police Service says services remain stable during this transition. Moreover, Deputy Chief Const. Todd Matsumoto is now serving as interim chief.
Meanwhile, the board says it is actively recruiting a new permanent chief constable. So, planning is already underway.
Then, officials stress their focus on governance and trust. In addition, they say they want a modern and responsive police service.
What Happens Next
Also, the new chair Perm Jawanda now takes on a key role. Moreover, he will help guide the board through a sensitive period.
Meanwhile, the leadership change signals stability after recent disruption. So, attention now turns to finding a permanent police chief.
Finally, the board says it remains focused on public safety and steady oversight.
