Surrey’s city council unanimously approved a resolution in their latest meeting to launch an investigation into various regional entities within Metro Vancouver. The council has reached out to B.C.’s Inspector of Municipalities to delve into concerns regarding governance and accountability within these organizations.
The motion, which highlights worries around financial management, fairness among member municipalities, and the handling of engineering and environmental documentation by the Surrey Board of Directors, aims to ensure transparency and integrity in the use of public funds.
Mayor Brenda Locke emphasized the importance of upholding public trust, stating, “Surrey residents should have confidence that public funds are managed with transparency and respect for the community they serve. Addressing these concerns is crucial for restoring public trust in these entities.”
In addition to the inquiry, Surrey’s council has requested a comprehensive review of the bylaws, decisions, and activities of several key regional bodies including the Metro Vancouver Regional Board, the Greater Vancouver Water District, and the Greater Vancouver Sewerage and Drainage District. The council is insistent that Metro Vancouver cover the expenses of the investigation.
Mayor Locke stressed that this initiative is not politically motivated but rather stems from a necessity for accountability. She asserted, “No publicly funded institution should be exempt from scrutiny. A thorough examination of Metro Vancouver’s governance will either affirm its effectiveness or highlight areas in need of improvement.”