SURREY, B.C. — Surrey mayoral candidate Doug McCallum has unveiled a broad election platform ahead of the October 17 civic election, promising faster building permits, tax relief for new small businesses, increased local food production, an independent forensic audit of City land deals, and Surrey’s withdrawal from the Metro Vancouver Regional District.
Speaking at the campaign announcement, McCallum also introduced the Safe Surrey Coalition’s full slate of council candidates.
A key pledge in the platform is a 60-day guarantee for residential building permits. Under the proposal, the City would approve residential building permit applications within 60 days or waive the permit fees if the deadline is missed.
McCallum also promised to waive business licence fees for the first two years for every new business opening in Surrey, describing the measure as support for entrepreneurs and neighbourhood businesses.
“Mom and pop shops are the backbone of Surrey. They create local jobs, sponsor community sports teams, and are the heart of our neighbourhoods,” McCallum said. “Open a business in Surrey, and your licence fees are zero for two years. Apply for a permit, and City Hall answers in 60 days or the fees are zero. City Hall should work at the speed of the people it serves.”
In addition to reducing red tape, McCallum announced a Farm Local initiative aimed at increasing Surrey’s local food production to help combat rising food costs. He also pledged to launch an independent forensic audit of the City’s recent land transactions, saying the review would focus on identifying any waste, abuse or fraud.
Another major commitment is to begin the process of withdrawing Surrey from the Metro Vancouver Regional District, a move McCallum says would reduce costs and give Surrey greater control over local decision-making.
The announcements form part of the Safe Surrey Coalition’s platform as candidates prepare for the municipal election scheduled for October 17.