Surrey’s mayor warns residents about a possible 18% tax hike tied to a major police budget request, urging a full review before any decision is made.
A Sharp Warning From City Hall
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has sent out a clear signal. She says an 18% property tax increase could land in 2026. The jump would happen if the Surrey Police Board’s new budget request moves ahead. The Board wants an extra $91 million over last year’s plan, and the mayor says the number is far too high.
Mayor Locke Says the Cost Is Too Much
In a firm statement, Locke stressed that she cannot support the proposal. She called it “extraordinarily excessive.” She also said Surrey residents cannot take on such a heavy cost. She explained that public safety matters, yet so does keeping taxes under control. Because of that, she believes the city must study the budget with care before anything is accepted.
City Will Review the Numbers Closely
The Police Board’s next meeting is set for December 18. Until then, Locke says the city will take time to review every part of the plan. She noted that staff and council will check the proposal with full diligence. She also said they will work with the Police Board to maintain transparency, accountability, and sound financial decisions.
Support for More Officers, but Not a Giant Jump
Although Locke called the budget request “excessive,” she added that she still supports more funding for new officers. She said Surrey needs more help to deal with urgent safety issues, including a recent rise in extortion cases. She insisted that her goal is to improve policing without forcing residents to face a massive tax hit.
Inside the Budget Numbers
The Surrey Police Service presented its 2026 plan in a closed council meeting on December 1. Council later voted to release the document to the public. The full budget calls for a total of $331,515,621 for policing in 2026. Several councillors disagreed with releasing the document, but the majority chose to make it public.
Political Tensions Rise Ahead of the 2026 Election
Councillor Linda Annis, who is also running for mayor, fired back at Locke. She accused the current mayor of turning a draft budget into a political weapon. She also said that the long police transition process is slow because of Locke’s past decisions. Annis argued that the transition has now stretched into its eighth year and said the delays have added costs.
A Debate Far From Over
The disagreement signals a growing political divide as Surrey moves toward the 2026 election. For now, residents are watching closely. After all, the final decision could shape policing, taxes, and city spending for years to come.
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