Former Surrey RCMP head Brian Edwards named GM of Surrey’s new public safety department, leading policing transition and city-wide safety services.
Former RCMP Chief Appointed to Oversee Surrey’s Safety Operations
Brian Edwards, who led Surrey RCMP from 2020 to 2024, has been appointed General Manager of the City of Surrey’s newly established public safety department. His appointment, effective August 25, was confirmed through an internal staff email sent on July 30 by City Manager Rob Costanzo.
Veteran Policing Leader Returns to City Administration
Edwards, a longtime law enforcement leader, most recently served as the RCMP’s Lower Mainland District Commander. His return to Surrey comes at a critical juncture, as the city continues navigating the complex transition from RCMP policing to the municipal Surrey Police Service (SPS).
Public Safety Services Unified Under One Department
The City of Surrey’s new department will integrate three key areas: Surrey Police Service, Surrey Fire Service, and bylaw enforcement. This consolidated approach aims to streamline city-wide emergency and public safety responses. Costanzo noted the integration will “foster even closer collaboration,” reduce decision-making delays, and enhance community responsiveness.
A Strategic Move Amid Policing Transition
The appointment is being viewed as a strategic step to stabilize and guide the long-disputed policing transition, which has drawn significant public, political, and legal attention in recent years. Edwards’ experience and familiarity with Surrey’s policing landscape are expected to play a pivotal role in completing this transition smoothly.
City Positions Edwards for Long-Term Public Safety Vision
In his message, Costanzo praised Edwards’ “deep operational knowledge” and “proven expertise in change management.” He emphasized that one of Edwards’ first mandates will be to advance a “holistic public safety strategy” for the city — aligning police, fire, and enforcement resources under one coordinated leadership framework.
City Holds Off on Public Announcement
As of now, no formal public announcement has been made by the City of Surrey. Surrey Police Service media liaison Ian MacDonald stated that SPS is not in a position to comment until official communications are released by the city.
