Surrey City Council has approved a 2024 budget with a 6% property tax increase, alongside a 1% hike in roads and traffic levy and higher secondary suite fees. Mayor Brenda Locke praised the budget, which was backed by her Surrey Connect majority but opposed by Surrey First and Safe Surrey Coalition councillors. The budget, presented by Surrey’s finance manager Kam Grewal, aims to address inflation, fund public safety, and improve transportation. Despite opposition, the finance committee approved the budget and city grants for 2024.

During the public hearing, Surrey Board of Trade CEO Anita Huberman expressed concern over the budget’s delay and its impact on businesses. Although a small turnout, residents that attended the meeting raised environmental and long-term financial concerns. Councillor Linda Annis also questioned the total tax increase, including utilities, suggesting it could surpass 10.5%. Grewal clarified that the overall increase would be around 7% for the average assessed home. This follows a 2023 budget that saw a 12.5% property tax hike after rejecting a proposed 17.5% increase.