SURREY Mayor Brenda Locke said on Monday night that Surrey City Council approved the 2024 Operating and Capital Budget that includes “the largest capital and public safety operations investments in the City’s history.”

She said: “I am proud to deliver a progressive, forward-thinking financial plan that considers the needs of our ever-growing population while being mindful of the financial stresses our residents face during these times of inflation.” She added: “As our City continues to grow and evolve, it’s imperative that we invest in projects that not only serve the needs of our current residents, but also meet future demands.”

Locke said in a statement: “Our ambitious Capital program includes 13 new projects and reflects our commitment to ensuring that Surrey will remain a dynamic and thriving community for generations to come.

“The approved $310.6 million Newton Community Centre represents a significant milestone for the City, as it is the largest capital project ever undertaken in terms of both funding and scope. In contrast to the phased approach previously planned by the former Council, we are committed to delivering this project in its entirety. It is regrettable that opposing Councillors did not support this budget or the community centre itself. However, the majority of Council recognizes the importance of this project for the community. The Newton Community Centre has long been overdue, and we are dedicated to ensuring its full implementation without any phases.

“After careful consideration of staff recommendations, we have chosen to construct this facility at the heart of Newton’s town core. Serving as the focal point of our efforts to revitalize the community, the centre will emerge as a vibrant hub for recreation, culture, and education. This state-of-the-art facility will boast impressive features such as a 50-metre swimming pool, gymnasium, fitness centre, child care services, and an expansive library.

“Our vision is to create a space that truly caters to the needs and aspirations of the Newton community. This project not only reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents but also underscores our belief in providing them with the infrastructure they deserve.”

Locke said: “While we are also proud to finally be delivering the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex, it has unfortunately tripled in cost since being delayed by the previous Council. Our residents should already be skating on ice sheets in a completed facility, but nonetheless we are proud we are not only getting it done but we have added a third sheet of ice.”

The Mayor claimed: “As much as we are doing, we wish we could do more. We have been prudent and kept costs as low as we possibly could. New revenues have helped but we have also chosen not to pursue other spending priorities. The fact is, Surrey Police Service is putting a financial strain on our ability to deliver new projects, not to mention SPS exceeded its budget by more than $22 million in 2023. Our focus has always been Surrey residents, and we will provide our citizens with the improvement and amenities they deserve.”

She also claimed: “Today, our General Manager of Finance confirmed once more that the City has not received any of the promised or publicly committed funding from the Province for policing, nor have we received any formal funding commitment. If we are mandated to continue with the police transition, we are likely facing, at a minimum, over half a billion dollars over the next decade compared to the costs of the Surrey RCMP. Times are tough and I will not artificially inflate taxes when families are struggling to pay for mortgages, rent, food, and other essential expenses. My priority is meeting the needs of our residents while being as fiscally prudent as possible.”

Locke added: “Looking ahead to next year, I have asked staff to consider converting the Capital Parcel Tax to a General Tax Levy that should be revenue neutral for the 2025 Budget. The Capital Parcel Tax was tripled by the previous mayor and his councillors to hide the real tax increase. It unfairly and disproportionately taxes people that can least afford it.”