Surrey Mayor Blasts Province Over RCMP Deal Exclusion
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke is raising the alarm over the provincial government’s decision to extend the RCMP’s presence in Surrey—without consulting city hall. She revealed that ministry staff communicated directly with federal authorities to support an RCMP extension, bypassing the city entirely. This extension, if approved, would see RCMP officers remain active in Surrey for a third year, aiding the Surrey Police Service (SPS) as it continues its staffing ramp-up.
The transition from the RCMP to the SPS officially began on November 29, 2024. Since then, the BC RCMP’s Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit has been assisting in local policing duties. Full transition to the SPS is projected to complete by 2026 or 2027.
City Left in the Dark, Says Locke
In a sharply worded letter to Public Safety Minister Garry Begg, Locke criticized what she described as unilateral action by the Province. “We are concerned that the Province has taken this step without first consulting with the City,” she wrote. The letter, dated June 19, stressed how the move denied Surrey an opportunity to share its views on a matter with significant financial consequences for the city.
Locke noted that the Province has repeatedly insisted that the City be financially responsible for decisions made at the provincial level. Yet, when it comes to RCMP deployment—a major budget item—the city was sidelined. She called the lack of consultation “troubling” and demanded that no agreements be signed without involving city representatives.
Mayor Demands Public Accountability
The mayor also highlighted that city council has, since January, asked top officials from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General to appear publicly and discuss the Province’s safety plans for Surrey. Despite repeated requests, no commitment has been made.
Locke warned that this lack of response is especially worrisome given Surrey’s pressing public safety challenges. She added that if the RCMP’s presence is extended, the city must at least be involved in negotiating key terms—like the number of deployed officers.
Letter Awaits Response as Time Runs Out
As of July 16, Begg had not replied to Locke’s letter. With only one more council meeting scheduled before the summer break—on July 28—any chance for a formal update before September remains slim.
The mayor’s frustration stems not just from being excluded, but from what she sees as a pattern of provincial disregard. She reiterated that cooperation and clarity are essential for public safety and financial planning, especially during such a sensitive police transition period.
Stay tuned to Surrey Speak for more updates on city politics and public safety developments.
