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Jan 12, 2024 5:08 PM - Debbie Rai - Connect Newsroom
A dispute between the City of Surrey and the Surrey Police Union has escalated after the city refused to pay salaries for newly recruited officers, citing budget overruns.
Union spokesperson Ryan Buehring said members were shocked to learn just before Christmas that the city would not add recruits to its payroll. “These officers joined in good faith, and to be told days before the holidays that they would not be paid is unacceptable,” Buehring told Connect Newsroom.
The city confirmed it sent a letter on December 19 advising the Surrey Police Service that additional hires should not have been made, given financial pressures. A city spokesperson said the police service’s 2023 budget of $48.7 million had already been exceeded by about $23 million, bringing total spending close to $75 million.
City consultant Peter German said the cost overrun demonstrates the challenges of running two parallel policing models while the RCMP remains in transition.
The union, however, argues the decision undermines confidence in the city’s ability to manage the transition and places unfair stress on officers. Residents who spoke with Connect Newsroom expressed frustration that political disputes are delaying a clear path forward. Ranjit Takkar, a Newton resident, said she worries about front-line stability. “We just want a consistent police force. The back-and-forth hurts morale and public trust,” she said.
The issue is expected to resurface when Surrey council reconvenes in January, with councillors divided over whether to continue the transition to the Surrey Police Service or retain the RCMP.
