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LETTERS: When can Surrey residents have their say on policing transition?

Editor:
21704381_web1_LETTERSRed_BlackC

Editor:

As residents who are part of the 87 per cent who did not vote for this mayor and council, we are concerned by their actions regarding the Light Rapid Transit reimbursement, the court costs to try to keep Uber out of Surrey, and the recent calling to police for a civil matter.

This council and mayor are not listening to the opinions of the residents, turning a deaf ear to community upgrades which were promised, fire service vehicles not being replaced. City workers are taking down Keep RCMP in Surrey signs from lawns.

Who ordered it and why?

A recent tweet from the Safe Surrey Coalition vilified the RCMP in Prince George. This tweet was taken down, but the damage had already been done.

There is a misconception that the RCMP take all their direction from their head office in Ottawa. It is our understanding that the local RCMP detachments take direction from the commissioner in charge of their division. A new “Surrey” force will cost residents much more than what is paid now and we will have fewer officers to serve our growing city.

It is imperative that Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor Gen. Mike Farnworth and Premier John Horgan order a referendum on policing before the next provincial and civic elections.

Surrey residents should not allow a group of residents with a specific agenda and deep pockets to influence our city council.

Can the residents of Surrey expect a referendum in the near future? If not, why not?

Hugh & Patricia McMillan, Surrey