TRANSPORTATION infrastructure, public safety and housing were the top priorities for Surrey residents during the 2025 budget consultation process.
For the second year in a row, open houses were held in each of the city’s town centres, seeking feedback on budget priorities and preferred funding options for the financial plan. The combined open houses and online surveys generated over 3,300 in-person visits and responses.
New this year, a full Punjabi survey option was offered as an option in line with the City’s new Multilingual Communications Policy. Of note, budget engagement saw an 8% increase in the percentage of participants who speak languages other than English.
“Public engagement is not just a process, it’s an integral part of our democratic process,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke on Tuesday. “I have attended several open houses and witnessed firsthand the value of community input in shaping our priorities. Every voice matters, and by listening to our residents, we can ensure that our final budget truly reflects the needs and aspirations of all Surrey citizens.”
Engagement findings revealed that respondents’ top priorities for the upcoming budget include:
- Transportation infrastructure;
- Public safety and emergency services;
- Preventing and responding to homelessness; and
- Housing supply and affordability
Respondents also provided feedback on funding options for the budget, with the highest level of support shown for maintaining existing programs and services with a combination of increasing user fees and property taxes.
Over 100,000 community members were informed about the budget process and engagement opportunities through a multi-channel communications campaign, including digital ads, an interactive engagement webpage, print and digital displays throughout the city at facilities and on the street. Engagement opportunities included an online survey offered in English and Punjabi, as well as six in-person open houses at each of Surrey’s six town centres.
The next step is for City staff and Council to review the engagement results and to utilize input to guide the 2025 budget as it is developed over the next few months. It is anticipated that a draft budget will be presented to Council in early 2025.
View the full engagement report and learn more about the budget engagement process at surrey.ca/budget2025.