Discover easy ways to stay politically engaged in Surrey. From local news to city meetings, help shape your community’s future.
Staying Informed Strengthens Surrey’s Future
In a city as fast-growing and diverse as Surrey, being politically aware isn’t just wise—it’s vital. From rising rents in Newton to transit delays in Guildford, the issues shaping daily life are decided locally. Staying engaged ensures your voice helps guide these decisions.
Local News and City Updates Keep You Ahead
Understanding what’s happening starts with reliable information. Local news outlets and official city channels cover everything from zoning changes to public safety debates. Read Maple News Wire gives residents direct insight. Subscribing to City of Surrey newsletters and following official social media pages ensures you don’t miss key updates.
Tip: Set Google Alerts for terms like “Surrey city council” or “Surrey housing” to get custom updates.
City Council Meetings Reveal Real-Time Decisions
City council meetings are where Surrey’s most important choices—about housing, policing, budgeting, and infrastructure—are made. Residents can attend in person at City Hall or watch live streams and replays via the city’s online portal. Public input periods also let residents submit feedback on key issues.
Impact Example: Concerned about green space redevelopment? Speaking at a council meeting can influence outcomes.
Engaging Elected Officials Builds Direct Influence
Your MP, MLA, and city councillors represent your concerns at every level of government. By contacting them about issues like housing affordability, transit access, or public safety, residents can ensure their priorities are heard. Finding contact details is easy via Elections Canada, Elections BC, and the City of Surrey website. Following officials on social media also helps track their work and public meetings.
Real Example: Raising concerns about Surrey Memorial Hospital wait times to your MLA can bring attention to healthcare gaps.
Community Groups Amplify Your Voice
Joining local advocacy or community groups connects residents with others working toward shared goals. Surrey offers many options—from youth councils to environmental coalitions. These groups often meet with policymakers, host public forums, and organize campaigns on issues like climate action, housing, and inclusivity.
Where to Start: Look into groups such as Surrey Youth Council, Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre, or environmental organizations active in the city.
Voting Remains the Most Powerful Tool
Surrey’s future is shaped by those who vote. With low turnout in past elections—only 35% in 2022—every additional vote has an outsized impact. Registering early, learning about candidates, and encouraging friends and neighbours to do the same can shift the city’s direction.
Reminder: Even small increases in voter turnout can lead to major changes on issues like transit expansion, housing policy, and public safety.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Every delayed bus, pothole, or school overcrowding story reflects political choices. But getting involved isn’t overwhelming. A few consistent actions—following local news, watching one council meeting, or emailing one official—can make a difference.
Call to Action: Get informed. Speak up. Vote smart. Surrey’s future depends on engaged residents, and your voice matters.
