A Bold Request for Surrey's Future

In a powerful statement, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to select a Surrey MP for his cabinet. This request comes right before her highly anticipated 2025 State of the City Address, set for May 14 at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel.

Locke emphasized the necessity for Surrey to have a strong representation at the federal level, especially as the city gears up to become the first in British Columbia to boast a population of one million. With Surrey experiencing remarkable growth, she asserts that it is vital for federal decision-makers to understand the unique needs of this burgeoning urban center.

State of the City Address: A Sold-Out Affair

Her upcoming address, which will be live-streamed for those unable to attend, has already sold out with 418 seats filled at a price of $150 each. Last year’s event also saw overwhelming interest, illustrating the community’s enthusiasm for local governance.

In her message to Carney, Locke congratulated him on his election victory and reiterated her desire to have one of the newly elected Surrey MPs in a cabinet role. She believes this would guarantee that Surrey's developmental needs receive the necessary support and attention from the federal government.

Ideal Cabinet Positions for Surrey's Growth

When asked which cabinet position she felt would best suit a Surrey MP, Locke mentioned PacifiCan (Pacific Economic Development Canada) as a prime candidate due to its focus on economic development in the region. However, she noted that there are a multitude of other vital portfolios including infrastructure, transportation, and housing that would significantly benefit from Surrey's input.

Surrey's Rapid Growth and Economic Power

In her plea, Locke highlighted astonishing statistics that showcase Surrey's rapid development, including an average growth of 28 new residents daily. "We aren't just growing; we're evolving into a major urban hub in Canada," she expressed, pointing out how each community within Surrey is advancing at a remarkable pace.

The City Centre, for instance, has experienced a 25% growth spurt from 2016 to 2021, illustrating that one in four residents is new to the area. Meanwhile, Newton has emerged as Surrey's business powerhouse, contributing significantly to the local economy with a 7% increase in businesses just last year.

A Thriving Economic Landscape

With over 158,000 residents and more than 281,000 people employed across 24,000 businesses, Surrey firmly establishes itself as the economic engine of Western Canada. Locke’s message to the Prime Minister underscores the necessity for Surrey’s voice to be not just heard but prioritized at the federal level.

As growing demands and opportunities arise in this vibrant community, the call for a Surrey MP in the government cabinet reflects a crucial step toward ensuring that Surrey receives the recognition and resources it rightfully deserves.