Metro Vancouver’s recent decision to review its services and seek cost efficiencies as part of its 2026 budget process represents a critical opportunity to balance affordability and infrastructure needs in one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions. The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) welcomes this proactive approach, recognizing its potential to strengthen fiscal responsibility while ensuring that core services meet the demands of businesses and residents alike.
As Metro Vancouver embarks on this review in January 2025, the SBOT acknowledges the importance of integrating cost savings into the budgeting process without compromising the region’s capacity to support economic growth and livability. The region’s infrastructure and services — including water, sewerage, waste management, and non-market housing — are foundational to attracting investment, fostering a competitive business environment, and sustaining quality of life.
By evaluating departmental efficiencies and exploring financial and service implications, this initiative will provide businesses and taxpayers with greater confidence in how resources are allocated. This effort, paired with ongoing governance reviews and performance evaluations of major projects like the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, signals a strong commitment to transparent and effective management of public funds.
“Ensuring fiscal responsibility while investing in infrastructure that drives economic growth is essential for a sustainable future in Metro Vancouver,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson for the Surrey Board of Trade. “We will closely monitor the outcomes of Metro Vancouver’s reviews, advocating for balanced approaches that align economic growth with affordability and service excellence.”
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Jasroop Gosal 604-634-0345 jasroop@businessinsurrey.com
