Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke unveils $1.5 billion election platform

Mayor Brenda Locke and her Surrey Connect party have released their 2026 municipal election platform, proposing approximately $1.5 billion in new spending for public facilities, parks, and infrastructure. Key projects include two aquatic centres, a South Surrey ice arena, a concert hall, and a public safety campus. The party aims to keep property tax increases at or below the rate of inflation and has committed to creating eight city-supported medical clinics.

Surrey Connect argues that finalizing the policing transition from the RCMP to the Surrey Police Service will free up capital for these municipal priorities. The platform includes $625 million for recreation and cultural facilities, alongside plans to offer city land for a new women’s and children’s hospital.

In response to the firefighters' union endorsing Locke and Surrey Connect, the Surrey Police Union (SPU) has expressed concern regarding public safety. SPU spokesperson Ryan Buhrig noted that the endorsement does not reflect the union’s assessment of the mayor’s record, citing a $47 million police budget cut and previous issues with recruit pay. The SPU stated it will not make a public endorsement but will continue to advocate for necessary resources and staffing.