The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce (SSWRC) are closely monitoring Metro Vancouver’s 2026 Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan, emphasizing its potential impact on business costs, regional infrastructure, and economic growth. As Metro Vancouver invites public input, SBOT and SSWRC urge businesses to provide their perspectives to SBOT staff.
“Businesses in Surrey, White Rock and across the region are already facing significant cost pressures, and Metro Vancouver’s financial decisions – particularly regarding water, wastewater, and waste management rates – will directly affect their bottom line,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson and Policy & Research Manager at the Surrey Board of Trade. “This is an important opportunity for businesses to advocate for a budget that supports both affordability and long-term economic growth.”
Metro Vancouver’s financial plan covers essential services for over three million residents, with water and wastewater costs making up the majority of household and business rates. Given the region’s history of increasing fees and major infrastructure projects requiring funding, SBOT and SSWRC are committed to reviewing the proposed budget and providing a response to advocate for a balanced approach.
SBOT and SSWRC also invite businesses to hear directly from Metro Vancouver Chair Mike Hurley and TransLink Mayors’ Council Chair Brad West at an event on Metro Vancouver’s Economic Future on February 26, 2025. The event will feature discussions on transportation, land use, and economic development – key factors that intersect with Metro Vancouver’s budget decisions.
For more information on SBOT and SSWRC’s advocacy efforts and to register for Metro Vancouver’s Economic Future, visit businessinsurrey.com.
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Jasroop Gosal, 604-634-0345, jasroop@businessinsurrey.com
