Local politics in Surrey shape daily life—from transit to taxes. Discover why civic engagement is crucial and how your vote makes a real difference.
Local Decisions Impact Your Daily Life
When people think of politics, national leaders and Parliament often come to mind. But for Surrey residents, it’s City Hall that shapes daily life the most. From the streets you drive on to the property taxes you pay, local politics is where decisions truly hit home. It’s not just important — it’s personal.
Neighbourhood Growth Driven by City Council
Surrey’s city council determines where homes, high-rises, and businesses are built. Their zoning decisions decide whether green spaces are preserved or developed and which neighbourhoods see new infrastructure first. This is why areas like Fleetwood are rapidly growing while others await upgrades.
Essential Services Managed Locally
Road repairs, garbage collection, recreational centres, libraries — these are all under city control. When traffic lights malfunction on King George Boulevard or a new park opens in Cloverdale, it’s the result of municipal decisions that affect your everyday experience.
Public Safety and Health Policies Begin Locally
Surrey’s choice between RCMP and Surrey Police Service reflects how local politics shapes safety. City leaders also guide mental health programs, harm reduction efforts, and emergency response systems — all crucial to feeling secure in your community.
Transit Plans Start at City Hall
Surrey’s push for projects like the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension, transit hub locations, bike lanes, and parking policies all stem from city decisions. These choices impact your daily commute more than anything decided in Ottawa.
Housing Affordability Requires Local Action
Surrey council approves housing developments, sets density rules, and works with builders on affordable housing. The availability and cost of homes are directly linked to these local choices — and to your vote.
School Boards Shape Education Locally
With Surrey’s young population, school boards play a vital role in addressing overcrowding, planning new schools, and expanding mental health supports. Their decisions directly affect your child’s learning environment.
Civic Engagement Gives Residents Real Power
Unlike national elections, local politics offers immediate impact. Fewer voters mean each ballot counts more. Residents can meet councillors, attend meetings, and advocate for changes — like the parents who recently secured safer school zones through local lobbying.
Make Your Voice Count
In the last municipal election, just 35% of Surrey voters went to the polls. That means a small group decided what the whole city experiences. If you care about taxes, transit, schools, or safety, you care about local politics — and your involvement matters.
Take action:
✔ Know your local representatives
✔ Follow council updates at www.surrey.ca
✔ Attend meetings or watch online
✔ Speak up on local issues
✔ Vote in every municipal election
Your city. Your future. Local politics shapes it all.
