AFTER 26 years of service, including the past nine years as City Manager, Vincent Lalonde is retiring from the City of Surrey, according to a press statement.

“This decision has not been an easy one, but after 26 years of an incredible run at the city of Surrey, I am announcing that I am hanging up my skates as City Manager,” said Lalonde on Monday. “As I reflect on the years we have spent working together at the City of Surrey, I am filled with immense pride. The growth we have achieved, the challenges we have overcome, and the innovative spirit that defines Surrey have all been truly exceptional.”

He added: “I want to express my deepest gratitude to all City staff for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering support throughout my time as City Manager. Thank you for being an integral part of my journey and for making the City of Surrey a truly remarkable City and place to work.”

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said: “On behalf of Surrey City Council, I want to thank Vince for his remarkable dedication to the City of Surrey. His leadership has brought Surrey through the COVID-19 pandemic and has put into place an exceptional senior management team to ensure the City of Surrey continues on its forward path. Vince’s legacy will be felt for a very long time and I wish him only the best in this next chapter of life.”

Lalonde held various positions at the City of Surrey over the last 26 years including General Manager of the Engineering Department.  He has also served as the Chair of Metro Vancouver Regional Administrators Advisory Committee and as the BC Board Representative of the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators.

Council has appointed Rob Costanzo, General Manager of Corporate Services, to serve as Acting City Manager.