Surrey police union questions firefighters’ endorsement of mayor and Surrey Connect slate

The union representing Surrey Police Service (SPS) officers is pushing back after the local firefighters’ union endorsed Mayor Brenda Locke and her Surrey Connect team for re-election. Several members contacted the Surrey Police Union (SPU) with concerns about the endorsement, particularly its reference to “public safety,” Ryan Buhrig, the union’s treasurer and spokesperson, said in an email to members that was forwarded to Black Press Media.

Locke and her Surrey Connect slate launched their 2026 municipal campaign on Oct. 1 at Surrey Firefighters Local 1271, the former historic Port Kells Fire Hall No. 7. The local firefighters’ union had endorsed them for the upcoming civic election.

Buhrig wrote that he understood why the endorsement did not sit well with SPU members. He cited this year’s $47 million police-budget cut, the failure to pay SPS recruits a few years ago and what he called fervent opposition to the policing transition throughout Locke’s “chaotic tenure.” He said the SPU has a strong relationship with the Surrey Firefighters Association and recognizes its right to take a position, but the endorsement does not reflect the SPU’s assessment of Locke’s public-safety record or the experiences of its members serving Surrey.

Buhrig said many SPU members had asked about the union’s position in the coming election. Its strategy, he said, is to speak openly with all campaigns about the resources SPS needs, including additional staffing and equipment. Those discussions let the union advocate directly for members and ensure candidates understand the challenges facing the police service and the community.

Buhrig cited the unique role police officers have in society as the reason the SPU would not publicly endorse any candidates before the election. The union will continue to engage with candidates and monitor campaigns closely so members know where mayoral and council candidates stand on policing and public safety. “Our priority remains advocating for the resources and stability our members need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” he said.