From notary to councillor, Gordon Hepner’s journey blends legacy, leadership, and local impact—shaping Surrey’s future with integrity and vision.
Intro
In Surrey’s shifting political landscape, one name is making waves—Gordon Hepner. As a city councillor and longtime resident with deep family roots in local governance, Hepner brings a unique blend of fresh insight and grounded commitment. With a background in law and a strong sense of community, he’s quickly earned a reputation as a thoughtful and transparent leader. Let’s take a closer look at the man behind the council seat—and why he’s becoming a key figure in shaping Surrey’s future.
Early Life and Background
Gordon Gregory Hepner was born in Manitoba and spent part of his early years in Alberta. When he was 11, his family moved to Surrey—a shift that wasn’t easy at first but would come to define his future. Over time, he embraced the city as his own and built a deep bond with its people and places.
Education was a cornerstone in Hepner’s development. After graduating from Semiahmoo Secondary, he pursued higher education at Concordia University for his undergraduate studies. He later completed a graduate degree in Applied Legal Studies from Simon Fraser University, setting the stage for his legal and civic career.
But Hepner wasn’t just influenced by books and classrooms. His mother, Linda Hepner, served as both a longtime councillor and mayor of Surrey. Growing up in a politically engaged household, civic duty became second nature. Those early conversations about leadership and responsibility helped fuel his own passion for public service—one he balances today with family life and volunteer coaching in youth sports.
Career Journey
Before stepping into politics, Gordon built a successful career as a notary public. He co-founded and ran a boutique legal practice—Cammack Hepner Notary Corporation—where he worked closely with families and businesses across Surrey. This role gave him a deep understanding of everyday issues affecting the community, from housing to estate planning.
His journey into politics came in 2022 when he joined Surrey Connect, a local political team led by then-mayoral candidate Brenda Locke. That same year, he ran for city council—and won, finishing fourth out of a competitive pool of over 50 candidates. It was a clear sign that his message of accountability and common-sense governance had struck a chord with voters.
As a councillor, Hepner hit the ground running. One of his first major wins was passing a motion to increase oversight on council-initiated grants, ensuring that any funding over $5,000 would undergo staff review. The goal? Greater transparency and better use of taxpayer dollars.
Beyond fiscal responsibility, he’s played a leading role in parks, recreation, and tourism. As chair of the committee, he’s pushed for investments that benefit youth, families, and local sports. His influence expanded further when he joined a newly formed Select Committee focused on council initiatives—giving him a stronger voice in policy development and long-term planning.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
Hepner’s leadership style is rooted in thoughtfulness and transparency. His motion on grant spending was praised for bringing financial accountability into sharper focus—earning respect from colleagues and the community alike.
He also championed a proposal to bring a healthcare administrator into the city’s leadership team, supporting efforts to improve access to medical services and streamline local care systems. This forward-thinking stance aligned with his larger vision of responsive governance.
When faced with a motion to increase the number of council seats, Hepner stood firm on prioritizing taxpayer concerns. He voted against the move, arguing that the city should first ensure existing structures are running efficiently. While the decision drew mixed reactions, it reflected his consistent emphasis on budget-conscious leadership.
Publicly, Hepner is seen as principled, balanced, and pragmatic. Voters appreciate his steady approach—someone who listens more than he speaks, and who acts based on research, not rhetoric.
Controversies & Challenges
Like any politician with convictions, Hepner hasn’t shied away from tough calls. His opposition to expanding city council drew criticism from some who felt it limited representation. However, Hepner defended his stance, citing concerns over budget and the need to focus on efficiency before growth. To date, his tenure has been largely free from controversy—his measured, ethical approach earning him a reputation as a level-headed leader.
Current Role & Future Outloo
Today, Hepner remains an active and influential member of Surrey’s city council. He continues to lead the Parks, Recreation and Sport Tourism Committee while contributing to broader planning through Select Committees. His focus areas include sustainable infrastructure, transparent governance, and stronger support for small businesses.
Looking ahead, Hepner aims to foster a Surrey that works for everyone—where policies are practical, services are efficient, and voices from all neighbourhoods are heard. He’s not just thinking about the next election cycle—he’s thinking about the next generation.
Conclusion
Gordon Hepner’s story is a blend of family legacy, legal expertise, and unwavering dedication to public service. From his early days in the notary field to his growing influence at city hall, he’s proven himself as a leader who listens, learns, and acts with purpose. In a time when communities crave honest, practical leadership, Hepner stands out as a trusted voice helping shape the future of Surrey. His journey is just beginning—but his impact is already being felt.
