Councillor Doug Elford Challenges City Council Over Property Tax Increases

SURREY, B.C. — Surrey Councillor Doug Elford delivered a sharp critique of the municipal budget during council debate, voting against property tax increases and pointing to compounding cost-of-living pressures on local families.

Elford contended that city hall's budget prioritizes legal battles over essential neighbourhood investments in recreation centres, sports fields, and road infrastructure.

Focus on Growing Neighbourhoods

"Families in Newton, Fleetwood, and Guildford are dealing with record inflation and mortgage renewals," Elford argued during the council session. "Instead of piling higher tax burdens on residents, council should be delivering the recreation facilities and community infrastructure that Surrey families have been waiting on for years."

Calls for Accelerated Project Delivery

Elford, alongside colleague Mandeep Nagra, advocated for expediting community recreation projects that were paused or deferred, urging council to re-evaluate capital spending priorities as Surrey's population continues its rapid expansion.