Surrey (Amrit Dhot): Mayor Doug McCallum and the newly elected members of Surrey City Council have officially taken the oath of office at an inauguration ceremony at Surrey City Hall, marking the beginning of the 2026–2030 term. In his inaugural address, McCallum announced that the new council would move forward on all 15 election commitments at its first regular meeting.
Among the major priorities are a four-year property tax freeze, a new women’s and children’s hospital on City-owned land in Newton, and extending SkyTrain along King George Boulevard to Newton. Other commitments include stronger action against crime and extortion, a zero-tolerance policy on illegal dumping, new recreational facilities, and making life more affordable for families.
McCallum said the council was elected to deliver results rather than simply study proposals. He also emphasized working with the provincial and federal governments to advance major projects, particularly the proposed hospital and SkyTrain extension.
Other key commitments include establishing a Commission on Government Efficiency with a report due within 100 days, an independent forensic audit of City Hall land dealings, a 60-day residential building permit guarantee, free business licences for new businesses during their first two years, and protecting local farmland and environmentally important neighbourhoods.
The council also plans to introduce free recreation opportunities for seniors, free swimming lessons for children aged 3 to 16, and a four-year freeze on recreation fees. New swimming pools are planned for Clayton Heights, City Centre, Newton and Cloverdale.
McCallum, who previously served as Surrey mayor for 13 years, was sworn in alongside Deputy Mayor and Councillor Mandeep Nagra and councillors Doug Elford, Laurie Guerra, Allison Patton, Meera Gill, Suhana Gill, Cheney Cloke and Harry Bains.
The first regular meeting of the new council is scheduled for November 9 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Surrey City Hall. Mayor McCallum expressed confidence in Surrey’s future, saying the city’s best days are still ahead.
