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Local News

February 02, 2020

Premier’s statement on Black History Month

“Today we begin Black History Month, a time to honour and celebrate the stories, experiences and accomplishments of Black Canadians here in British Columbia and across the country.  

“Black history is foundational to our province’s history.

“We think of the contributions the jurist Mifflin Wistar Gibbs made to our province in the 1860s, as a Victoria city councillor and as a delegate to the Yale Convention – which guided us toward confederation in 1871. And we remember how, a century later, Rosemary Brown led the fight on issues of housing, employment and human rights in, and outside of, the B.C. legislature. These are just two of the many Black British Columbians who helped make our great province what it is today.

“This month, I encourage everyone in British Columbia to take part in community events for Black History Month and learn about the significant efforts made by Black British Columbians to better our province.

“It is the people of this province that make it strong. When we come together and celebrate our diversity, we are not only standing up to racism and discrimination, we are also building a better, stronger British Columbia.”

For a French translation, visit: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020_Black-History-

February 01, 2020

Right As Rain

(slide near the westerly end of 24th avenue)

Right on schedule late yesterday afternoon a 30 foot wide section of a bluff between White Rock and Crescent Beach slid down on to the tracks.The heavy rain and subsequent run off is constantly causing slides along the corridor between White Rock and Crescent Beach.

Passenger and freight service was immediately suspended. BNSF expects to open the line again today for freight service. Passenger service cannot resume until 48 hours has passed from the time of the slide.

Mayors’ Council endorses inter-municipal business licence for ride-hailing
Metro Vancouver mayors are encouraging municipalities to adopt the bylaw

Mayors’ Council endorses inter-municipal business licence for ride-hailing
Metro Vancouver mayors are encouraging municipalities to adopt the bylaw

January 31, 2020 (Vancouver, B.C.) – The Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation released today the details of the agreement reached at its January 30, 2020 in-camera meeting on an interim inter-municipal business licence (IMBL) bylaw for ride-hailing companies wishing to operate in the Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Squamish-Lillooet regional districts. A working group led by staff from municipalities with support from TransLink and the provincial government has developed this interim bylaw. The Mayors’ Council is urging municipal governments to begin adopting the proposed bylaw as soon as possible.

The proposed bylaw provides a single set of requirements for all participating municipalities, making rules clear for companies and drivers. Under the IMBL, ride-hailing companies would be able to obtain one licence to operate, as opposed to separate business licences for each municipality in Passenger Transportation Board Region 1, which could become administratively onerous and expensive.

The IMBL has several requirements and processes for ride-hailing companies wishing to operate locally
Ride-hailing companies would pay a $155 annual per-company fee and an additional $150 charge per-vehicle.
The per-vehicle fee will be waived for wheelchair accessible vehicles
The per-vehicle fee for zero emission vehicles is $30.
The City of Vancouver will administer the interim IMBL, collecting fees and trip data which will be distributed to participating municipalities each month.

Fees and regulations associated with the IMBL would be in addition to requirements under the provincial government’s ride-hailing legislation. The bylaw will be shared as municipalities begin bringing the bylaw to their municipal councils for adoption.

I have not budged from my position that a level playing field must be in place for ride-hailing and taxi companies to compete in. My fight is about ensuring fair competition in a highly regulated industry. The IMBL approved by the Mayors’ Council today levels the playing field and it has my support. I now urge the province and the Passenger Transportation Board to do their part to establish equity for those employed in the vehicle for hire industry by reviewing taxi boundaries, fleet caps, insurance requirements, and ensuring ride-hailing vehicles provide accessible services for customers of all abilities.

Doug McCallum
Mayor
City of Surrey

January 31, 2020

I Can See Clearly Now

Geoff Funke of the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation cuts ribbon

This week the Peace Arch Hospital celebrated the arrival of a new CT Scanner.

This new machine will reduce wait times, as well as produce faster and more accurate images with reduced radiation… all factors that will improve patient care here at your local hospital! Last year, 18,000+ patients received a CT Scan at Peace Arch Hospital – that’s nearly 50 scans a day! Our new CT Scanner will help to improve surgery, biopsy, and radiation therapy results for more than 1,000 people every month! 

THANK YOU to our generous community of donors who allowed us to purchase this new machin

January 29, 2020

Surrey Uber

Surrey mayor DOUG MCCALLUM hastily called a preses conference Monday in an attempt to shed light on the current situation regarding RIDE HAILING services Uber & Lyft and their future in Surrey.

At the press conference Mayor MCCALLUM stated drivers wanting to operate in Surrey could apply for a taxi business license. When contacted later following the meeting the licensing department at City Hall said "There is no license available right now for UBER and or LYFT to operate in Surrey.

Yesterday (Tuesday) morning Mayor MCCALLUM was bag on the media circuit. In his interview on CBC radio MCCALLUM went on to say one of his major concerns is simply due to the fact there is a disproportionate number of taxi drivers who make their homes in Surrey.

January 28, 2020

Cannabis Stores Put On Hold

A small vocal crowd (pro and con) attended the Cannabis Retail Public Hearing last evening at the White Rock Community Centre.

At the end of the two hours of discussion council (with the exception of me and councillor FATHERS who is traveling) voted to refer the matter to a future meeting of council to allow the members more time to consider what was heard at the special meeting)

D.Chesney

Bells Ringing - Lights Flashing

.....right through the middle of it the young boy goes crashing.

Literally 3 seconds later!

As long as this type of reckless activity continues on our waterfront, don't expect whistle cessation anytime soon.

Have You Ridden White Rock's Funicular?

TRANSLINK'S 362 Seaside Community Shuttle may not fir the exact description of a "funicular", but with that said using the bus to get to the beach and back from uptown is very affordable. Seniors can ride the shuttle service for under $2.00 and return on the same ticket if they travel within 2 hours. Regular pricing is standard TRANLINK fare for one zone $3.00

362 schedule posted outside museum on the waterfront

Currently Showing @ White Rock Museum

In 2019, to commemorate the UN’s International Year of Indigenous Languages, the Royal BC Museum produced three custom-built traveling versions of its permanent exhibition Our Living Languages: First Peoples’ Voices in BC. 

The Our Living Languages traveling exhibition highlights what First Nations communities throughout the province are doing to help 34 different languages survive and flourish.

Through interactive stations, video and audio, Our Living Languages provides visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the history of disrupted languages in BC, the complexity of these languages, and the people–and entire communities–that are working tirelessly to document and revitalize them.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Galleries and Museum Shop
Tuesday – Friday: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm
Weekends: 11:00 am – 4:30 pm
Holidays: 12:00 am – 4:30 pm\

January 27, 2020

January 25. 2020

Doug McCallum Continues To say No To Ride Sharing

The approval of ride hailing companies in Metro Vancouver by the Passenger Transportation Board does not change my position on this issue. What continues to be my chief concern is the unfair advantage that has been created without any regard as to how it will impact those who are employed in the taxi industry. It is no secret that a large percentage of cab drivers live in Surrey and the modest wages they earn go to support their families. As residents and as my constituents, it is my duty to do what I can to ensure that these jobs are not lost due to an unfair advantage that has been arbitrarily put in place.

The taxi industry meets the needs of all its passengers by having vehicles for hire that can accommodate people of all abilities. Until I am assured that a level playing field is established, I will not be supporting the issuing of ride hailing business licenses and, if there is a need, I will be asking for an increase in taxi licenses for operation in Surrey. I look forward to hearing about how the region will work with the province to ensure there is fair competition in the marketplace between ride hailing companies and the taxi industry.

Mayor Doug McCallum

Buyer Beware! Man charged with robberies related to on-line sales

A 20-year-old man is facing robbery charges following his arrest by the Surrey RCMP Robbery Unit for two incidents which took place a day apart. 
The first incident occurred on January 18, 2020, just after 5:00 pm near the Surrey Public Library. The victim arranged a meeting with a potential buyer for a cell phone they had advertised for sale on social media. When the meeting took place the victim was allegedly assaulted, and their phone was stolen. 

On January 19, 2020, just before noon, a similar incident took place outside a Surrey shopping centre, but the victim was able to run away and their phone was not stolen. 

Surrey RCMP’s Robbery Unit arrested 20-year-old, Joseph Peake, of no fixed address, on January 19, 2020 and he has been charged with 2 counts of robbery and 3 counts of breaching court conditions.

“There is a heightened risk to personal safety when meeting people you don’t know, even in a public space,” says Cpl. Elenore Sturko, Surrey RCMP. “We have seen a number of similar robberies over the past few months and want the public to be aware that there are risks involved in these buy and sell transactions.”

Surrey RCMP is providing some personal safety tips that may be helpful when arranging meetings with unknown online parties to buy or sell items: 

• Insist on a heavily populated, public meeting place that is well-lit
• Do not meet in a secluded place or arrange to meet at your home
• Be especially careful when buying or selling high value items
• Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you’re meeting the buyer/seller
• Take your cell phone and a friend along to accompany you
• If you are verbally threatened or physically assaulted, avoid confrontation by giving the perpetrator the property. Call police as soon as possible.

January 24, 2020

Sink The Pink

Two years ago when the Pacific Inn aka The Pink Palace was sold to the Hilton hotel chain the expectation was we would soon have a large world class hotel on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, Then nothing. That is until there has been a flurry of action at the empty structure related to the movie industry. The rumour mill churned out WHOOPI GOLDBERG was in town filming and perhaps even NICHOLAS CAGE was in the area.

Here is the official statement from the hotel and film industry;

To clarify some of the rumours, the hotel is fully closed and is only used as a film location at this time. We have been pleased to host a number of local films at our location! While we are not ready to share the new vision for this project, we can share that we are still partnered with Hilton and that the timeline has changed. Until further notice, we are now your local film location and look forward to introducing hotel plans back to the community in a few years. 
In the meantime, Margarett Lange and Krista Thomas proudly represent the hotels ownership (Fountana Hotels LP), and strive to keep bringing film to South Surrey, and the revenue that productions bring into the city and its local businesses!

January 22, 2020

Fatal pedestrian involved collision in South Surrey

Surrey RCMP is currently on scene investigating a fatal pedestrian involved collision in South Surrey.

At approximately 7:08 am this morning, Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a 55-year-old male pedestrian in the 2400-block of 188 Street. Emergency Health Services were provided, however, despite all attempts to revive the man, he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene.

Surrey RCMP Criminal Collision Investigation Team (CCIT) has conduct of the file. Integrated Collision Analysis Reconstruction Services (ICARS) has been called out to the scene. The incident is still under investigation.

It's A long Way From Maple Ridge To Cooperstown

Larry Walker, 53, becomes just the second Canadian in history to be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

The Maple Ridge native received 76.6 per cent of the vote, surpassing the 75 per cent required for induction in his final year of eligibility by six votes.

A 17-year MLB veteran, Walker started his career with the Montreal Expos, where he played for six years before joining the Colorado Rockies for the next 10 seasons. The outfielder retired in 2005 as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals.

During his career, he amassed an NL MVP award, five all-star nods, seven Gold Gloves, three Silver Sluggers and three batting titles. Walker had a career .313 batting average with a .965 OPS, 383 home runs, 1,311 RBI and 72.7 WAR.

He joins Ferguson Jenkins as the only other Canadian to enter Cooperstown.

Walker was one of two players elected in 2020, alongside New York Yankees great Derek Jeter.

CONGRATULATIONS Larry!

January 21, 2020

If We Build It

Forty to fifty residents of White Rock attended last evening's city planned open house/community conversation planned to allow residents to provide the city with feedback on how they would like to see city hall spend the millions of dollars the city has received from recent development in White Rock. 

CARL ISAAK the director of planning opened the evening with an overview of what projects qualified and what projects did not qualify for the spending of the CAC monies. ISAAK also explained the city currently has 6 million dollars in the bank and is expecting an additional 7 million dollars over the next two years.

If you were unable to attend last evening's meeting but would still like to have your voice and ideas heard you can visit the city's website and register your thoughts and ideas.

(click here)

THE PROVINCE newspaper is fully involved in Royal madness. Today's edition turned up a collection of homes in the Vancouver area they felt would serve the purposes for Harry & Meghan should they decide to live on the west coast

Here is a home in South Surrey the PROVINCE felt may fit their needs

4552 192 Street, Surrey — $25 million

As Surrey is a very British word, and they don’t mind living outside of the city, this 11,000 square foot home on 77 acres of rural land could work — and the property taxes are only $11,500 a year.

(check out all the homes THE PROVINCE newspaper is putting up for consideration)

January 20, 2020

It's Finally Official

A touch of pride in our community this morning. Finally our pier receives the recognition it deserves.

It is no La Rue de la Quay. But it's ours.

January 18, 2020

Truck Driver Receives Serious Injury in Deas Tunnel

A driver for Canada post was seriously injured yesterday afternoon as he drove through the Massey Tunnel. A large piece of ice broke away from the ceiling and crashed through the window of his van. 

A statement from the Transportation Ministry says its own staff and the maintenance contractor for the tunnel have assessed the are and there is nothing that leads them to believe there is further risk for travelers.

The ministry adds the busy commuter route has never seen an event such as this.

January 17, 2020

Surrey fire truck smashed by car on slippery road

A car heading north near the Serpentine Bridge in South Surrey hit two emergency vehicles on Thursday, crews say. (Courtesy Twitter/@IVIDIOT)

It was a small miracle nobody was seriously hurt after a car ran into not just one, but two first responder vehicles on Highway 99 in South Surrey Thursday night.

Crews said the car was driving north near the Serpentine Bridge when it arrived at the scene of a prior crash, where two tow trucks, a police cruiser, and a fire truck were just wrapping up their investigation of the two-car collision.

The approaching vehicle failed to stop and ended up side-swiping the police cruiser before rear-ending the fire truck.

Surrey fire battalion chief Brian Carmichael said there was significant damage to all vehicles. 

“Our vehicle will be out of service,” he told NEWS 1130. “It is driveable, but I don’t think it is capable to do the job it was designed for, so we have a backup engine that is going to replace it.”

The driver and all of the other people at the scene escaped without major injuries.

How Fast Is Surrey Growing?

Building permits issued in Surrey breaks $2 billion mark

The City of Surrey set a new record in building permit values issued in 2019. The total construction value exceeded $2.29 billion last year, which is 33% higher than the previous record total of $1.52 billion from 2018.

In 2019, $1.57 billion of the construction value came from residential permits which translated to 6,632 new dwellings that will be built in Surrey.

The economic confidence in Surrey has reached new heights and breaking the $2 billion mark in building permits is uncharted territory for our city, said Mayor Doug McCallum. The livability, affordability and recreational amenities that Surrey offers have established this city as a place where you can raise your family or grow your business. With the new Surrey SkyTrain extension on the horizon and with Council's Smart Development initiatives, Surrey will be a prime destination for new residents and businesses for years to come.

While the Planning and Development Department issued a total of 16,498 building, plumbing and electrical permits in 2019, staff managed to reduce the wait time for single family dwelling to 10 weeks by the end of the year. In comparison, the wait time for a single family dwelling permit peaked at 25 weeks in 2017.

January 16, 2020

Check Before You Leave

The city of Surrey has now made public a link to all their traffic cameras throughout the city. A good thing this week with the varying road conditions, but also certainly worth bookmarking for future reference.

(click here for the link to hundreds of traffic cameras)

January 15, 2020

BNSF Whistle Cessation

Beginning January 29th 2020, BNSF railway has agreed to train whistle cessation in White Rock!

BNSF Engineers will still blow horns as needed as warnings, and there will be a transition period following January 29th 2020 so there will still be a few horns, but BNSF has done their final inspections of the 8 crossings with the City and has agreed to whistle/horn cessation starting the end of this month!

January 14, 2020

Feedlot Stink Continues

Despite the best efforts by residents living near a feedlot in South Surrey, the foul odor emulating from the location continues much to the dismay of those living anywhere near the lot located on 8th avenue in the 17200 block.

(read the full story from CBC news)

You've Got To Have Hope

This beautiful 8 bedroom 7 bathroom home on Pacific Avenue in White Rock's East Beach district recently was posted FOR RENT for $9,999.00 a month.

A group of quick thinking ladies in our community pondered the financial advantage of a group of 8 ladies pooling their current rent money and creating their own GOLD GRILS abode.

We'll keep an eye on how this idea progresses. There actually was a meet up at the house on Sunday where a number of interested ladies turned up.

1567 Pacific Avenue 6386 square feet, in unit laundry, pet friendly, garage parking - stunning views.

A neighbour living close to the home posted this comment today;

This house has only had people living in it for 4 months out of the 8 -9 years it’s been here. It’s been for sale again (3 round) for last 2 years. On their 4 Realtor/listing. 
They’ve reduced rental asking price from $13,000.

January 11, 2020

Surrey War Of Words Continues

Statement from Mayor Doug McCallum

The news that Gary Jagur Singh (Marpole Rapist) will be released on day parole in our city is not only disturbing but infuriating to the people of Surrey. 

The Parole Board of Canada acknowledges that Singh's sexual deviancy can never be cured. In a previous day parole Singh breached his conditions and he has been denied full parole now, which makes his release to a halfway house in Surrey all the more irresponsible and troubling. 

Singh is a designated dangerous offender and I am frustrated by the lack of information coming from the RCMP. For the safety of the people of Surrey, I believe that our residents need to be told where this prolific sexual predator is residing in Surrey. That information should be made available immediately.

Mayor Doug McCallum

Statement from Assistant Commissioner Brian Edwards

I acknowledge the frustration expressed by Mayor McCallum in the news release he issued today (January 10, 2020) regarding the release of a dangerous offender into Surrey. While the Surrey RCMP share many of these concerns, it is important to recognize there is a significant process in place by the Parole Board of Canada to determine if and when an offender can be released into the community and the conditions they are put under.

When the Surrey RCMP were notified of this individual's release into Surrey, we conducted our own assessment that included the fulsome decision made by Parole Board of Canada. Unfortunately, the threshold for a Public Interest Disclosure was not met in this situation for a variety of reasons including whether the individual posed an imminent threat, the recommended conditions, and the strong release plan approved by the Parole Board. However, we are aware of the significant conditions in place for this individual, including electronic monitoring, and we will be monitoring this individual, along with Correctional Service Canada.

I personally advised Mayor McCallum of the situation on two separate occasions and provided him the information that could legally be provided to him regarding this situation. While I acknowledge that the limited information that the police are able to provide in these cases can cause frustration, we have a legal obligation to balance the privacy of individuals and the risk to public safety. Police can only breach that privacy under the strictest of circumstances and, in this situation, that threshold was not reached.
I share the publics concern on this matter. I can assure the residents of Surrey that the correct processes were followed in this situation, and that we have a team specifically assigned to monitoring these type of offenders to ensure they do not breach their conditions or impact public safety in any manner.

Brian Edwards

January 05, 2020

Parents... IT'S TIME...

The FINAL PUSH of fundraising for Phase 2 of our Playground Replacement Project!! Our north "intermediate" playground is being replaced this year, and the wonderful Rotary Club of White Rock is helping to make it happen! Stay tuned for exciting fundraising events coming your way in 2020, and please give generously in this final stretch of our playground campaign. whiterockrotary.org

Operation: Ladies This Is You! 

Saving Lives at Sea 

FREE Event for Girls & Women

Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue (RCMSAR) partners with Achieve Anything Foundation to offer a hands-on taste of marine search and rescue in Coastal BC

The Achieve Anything Foundation announces that applications are open for an exciting new Operation: This IS You! hands-on experience event to be held with RCMSAR in White Rock, B.C. Saturday February 22. www.achievanything.ca

The event is by invitation only and applications must be made in advance on the Foundations website. Those selected and invited must further complete the RSVP process by the specified deadlines in order to be admitted to the event. While there is no maximum age for women to apply, all applicants should self-assess they are sufficiently mobile/agile to board vessels and participate in the day's activities.

January 10, 2020

Streets On Fire

Police investigating confirmed shots fired in the area of 96th Ave and 148th Street.

At about 1730 hours, Surrey RCMP received reports of gun fire between two vehicles in the area of 96th Ave and 148th Street.
The two vehicles were described as a white Ford Expedition type and a white Lexus or Infinity type vehicle.
The vehicles were traveling at a high rate of speed and where last seen going north on 148th Street.

Members of the Surrey RCMP attended to the area and located several shell casings.
No reports of injuries or damage to property have been reported. The intersection was closed for a period of time but has been re-opened.
Investigators with the Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit are currently on scene continuing with the investigation,
and will be in the area for unknown period of time.

Surrey RCMP are asking that if anyone was driving in the area and could have dash camera footage of the incident or the vehicles involved call 604-599-0502. 

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or if you wish to make
an anonymous report, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca

Surrey's Curbside Large Item Pickup Program

Dispose of big items like mattress, furniture and appliances for free.

Large Item Pickup Program Updates

On October 16, 2019 we launched a new online service to make scheduling your pick up appointment more convenient. We've also made some updates to the program itself.

Now, all households that receive City of Surrey's curbside collection are now eligible for the service. These households can schedule up to 6 items a year instead of 4. Households with registered secondary suites are now eligible for up to 8 scheduled items per year.

We have expanded the list of accepted items and categories. See full list of accepted items below.

Schedule a Large Item Pickup

1. Review our list of accepted items to ensure your item qualifies
2. Book an appointment  online or call 604-590-7289 (Option 3). Provide details or photos of  your item to help speed up the process.

(click here for more info)

January 07, 2020

New Bus Service - South OF The Fraser

TRANSLINK is increasing bus service this week to improve bus service frequency and reliability where customers need it most!

The significant increases in service will add 65,000 more annual bus service hours to the system, making space for up to 20,000 more people each weekday.

Bus service changes happen every spring, summer, fall, and winter to reflect seasonal changes in demand and to deliver service improvements.

RapidBus service launching on January 6:

R1 King George Blvd (Previously the 96 B-Line)

The 96 B-Line is now the R1 RapidBus

Weekdays/Weekend schedule:

• Every 8 minutes from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Every 9 minutes outside of rush hours 

Evening schedule:

• Every 10 to 15 minutes from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. 

Outside of peak hours, all RapidBus routes will have 15-minute service or better from 6 a.m. to midnight, sevendays a week. To make the bus system more efficient, there will also be adjustments to some Metro Vancouver bus routes. Key changes include: 

Learn more about how your commute might change at translink.ca/servicechanges.

January 05, 2020

Market trends for single-family residential properties breakdown

• Lower Mainland 2020 property assessments are in the mail and will be of great interest to homeowners. (See article.) 

• The average White Rock property assessment for single detached homes is -9 per cent from 2019, while strata units are -4 per cent. 
  
• The biggest drop in average assessment is in West Vancouver, with -16 per cent for single detached homes and -9 per cent for strata units. Whistler, Pemberton and Squamish have seen increases in value.

Market trends for detached residential homes

Market trends for strata residential properties (e.g. condominiums) by geographic area for select urban areas:

January 04, 2020

City of White Rock hosts solid waste collection open house on Jan. 15 

The City of White Rock is seeking input from homeowners, renters and businesses into the collection of garbage, green waste and recycling in the city.

The City is hosting an information open house on Wednesday, Jan. 15. Drop in anytime between 3:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the White Rock Community Centre to learn more about solid waste collection in White Rock, how it compares with other Lower Mainland municipalities, and to share your thoughts.

The White Rock Community Centre is at 15154 Russell Ave. Free underground parking is available at the Russell Avenue entrance.

For those who can’t make it, information and an online survey will be available Jan. 16 at www.whiterockcity.ca/waste.

Facts about Solid Waste Collection in White Rock

White Rock City Council identified the review of multi-family and commercial waste pickup as one of the 2018 – 2022 Council Strategic Priorities.

· In mid-2015, the City of White Rock made changes to its delivery of solid waste services, in line with recommendations of a solid waste study on best practices. The changes included the privatization of multi-family and commercial solid waste pickup, as well as a transition from cost recovery through property taxes to a user-fee model for single family homes. 

· White Rock City Council has directed a review of the decision to privatize multi-family and commercial waste pickup after receiving feedback from the community during the strategic priority consultation process. The public feedback suggested a desire to return multi-family and commercial solid waste to City of White Rock collection. 

· The City has retained Dillon Consulting to review waste collection services and to obtain community input on the options that include City collection, or City-managed collection, for multi-family and commercial waste or maintaining the status quo for pickup.

December 31, 2019

How The White Rock Polar Bear Swim Began 50 Years Ago

December 30, 2019

Murder Victim Identified

IHIT is working closely with the Surrey RCMP and the BC Coroner’s Service to gather evidence and complete priority tasks. 

In order to further the investigation and establish a timeline prior to his death, IHIT is confirming the victim is 18-year old Keeshawn Brown of Ontario. Investigators believe this was an isolated event, not related to the Lower Mainland gang conflict. 

“Investigators are attempting to determine how long Mr. Brown has been in BC and his activities leading up to his death,” says Detective Lara Jansen of IHIT. “We urge anyone who was with Mr. Brown or has information to assist investigators to contact IHIT.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

BACKGROUNDER

(Residence where body was discovered - next door to White Rock Legion 08 on Johnston Road)

Surrey RCMP is assisting the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) after a man was found deceased in a South Surrey residence.

On December 23, 2019, shortly before 9:30 pm, Surrey RCMP responded to the 2200-block of 152 Street after a report of a man located deceased in a residence.

IHIT has been engaged and are actively investigating the incident. Early indications are that the incident was contained to the inside of the residence and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

January 02, 2020

50th Annual Polar Bear Swim Recap

A spectacular sunny warm day with a high temperature of 14 degrees and the recent media attention brought to White Rock pertaining to the activity in our bay by the spawning anchovies, virtually guaranteed a massive crowd to turn up yesterday for the 50th anniversary of White Rock's Polar Bear Swim. The feeding frenzy of seals, seagulls and sea lions that has taken place in Semiahmoo Bay for the past number of weeks in search of anchovies, seemed to disappear yesterday.

Next to Vancouver who celebrated their 100th anniversary, White Rock holds the second place record for Polar Bear swims in British Columbia.

Councillor Scott Kristjanson and Mayor Walker did more than simply turn up to observe the polar plunge. 

Former mayor/mla and mp GORDIE HOGG (sporting his 50th anniversary toque) was called upon to once again perform his masterful master of ceremony duties for the 50th anniversary of the White Rock Polar Bear Swim.

See you all next year.

Corry Kriticos photos

Christy Fox photo collage

December 26, 2019

IHIT investigating homicide in Langley – Victim Identified

Langley: The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team is requesting assistance in the investigation into the homicide of a Langley man. 

On December 24, 2019, at 9:23 p.m., Langley RCMP Frontline members responded to the 2900 block of 224 Street, Langley, to assist EHS and the Langley Fire Department with an unresponsive male. Despite resuscitation attempts, the man was pronounced deceased and IHIT was subsequently called in.

One person at the scene was initially taken into custody but later released. Investigators believe this was an isolated incident, not related to the ongoing Lower Mainland Gang Conflict.

IHIT is working closely with the Langley RCMP, Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the BC Coroners Service to gather evidence and complete priority tasks.

In order to further the investigation and establish a timeline prior to his death, IHIT is confirming that the victim is 67 year-old Dennis Johnston of Langley. 

“We urge anyone who was with Mr. Johnston or has details of his activities prior to his death to speak with investigators,” says Detective Lara Jansen of IHIT. “We know Mr. Johnston was at a social gathering earlier in the day on Christmas Eve and encourage those who were there or saw him there to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Spawning Northern Anchovies Cause Stir on White Rock Beach

Gabrielle Trouton photo

Locals and visitors alike have marveled for the past month at the activity out in Semiahmoo Bay. Hundreds of seagulls hovered and or landed on the water in search of something. What was that something? They are Northern Anchovies which normally winter along the coast before heading out to sea to spawn.

This time for the first time in anyone's memory they have come into Semiahmoo Bay in such numbers the seals and subsequently the sea lions arrived in search of food. How long this wonder of nature will continue is anyone's guess as it has never seemingly happened before.

(click here to watch a video)

Sherron Fairbairn photo

December 20, 2019

Where Were You One Year Ago Today?

Shortly after noon last December 20 a winter storm brought tragedy to our city by the sea. A combination of an incredibly high King tide, strong winds pounding seas and the breaking away of the dock at the end of the pier all added up to disaster.

A section of the dock on the west side of the pier broke away from its moorings and with boats still attached to the dock the dock and boats turned into a giant battering ram. Had the dock not broken away we would not be talking about the first anniversary of the destruction of our world famous pier. TIM SHIELDS former RCMP media liaison was out for a walk on the pier with his daughter when all hell broke loose. Watch the video SHIELDS recorded as the storm WHIPPED THE BOATS UP AGAINST THE PIER.

Insurance and a grants from the Provincial government for 1 million dollars repaired the damaged portion of the pier. Fundraising continues to secure additional financing for the remainder of the pier to be replaced. The city of White Rock has and will continue to apply for every new grant available that will help offset the estimated 14 million dollars we will need to fully replace the entire pier to the standards of the portion that was already repaired.

Counterattack Sobriety Roadblock This Weekend

RCMP detachments throughout the Lower Mainland will be conducting a Counterattack sobriety roadblocks from now through New Years in support of ICBC’s provincial impaired driving campaign.

Despite BC having some of the toughest impaired driving laws, people still continue to choose to make the selfish decision to drive while under the influence,” says Sergeant David Chu, Surrey RCMP Traffic Services. “Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs could see you face penalties ranging from driving suspensions and vehicle impoundments to serious fines and criminal charges.”

“If your holiday festivities involve alcohol, plan ahead for a safe ride home,” said Karen Klein, local ICBC road safety coordinator. “Arrange a designated driver, call a taxi, take transit or call Operation Red Nose – there are so many options to get home safe.”

“Risky driving behaviours are a key focus for Vision Zero Surrey,” said Shabnem Afzal, City of Surrey Road Safety Manager and Vision Zero Surrey Lead. “Through collaborative efforts with Surrey RCMP and ICBC, we will continue to target these behaviours, working towards our Vision of Zero people killed or seriously injured on our roads.”

If you witness a suspected impaired driver, pull over when safe to do so and call police immediately. Try and provide as much information about the vehicle, driver, and vehicle direction of travel and what activity you observed.

For more information on road safety and impaired driving, please visit ICBC’s website and the Surrey RCMP website.

Operation Red Nose Returns 

The Lower Mainland RCMP and private police forces will be out in full force from now until through New Years Eve.

This is very welcome news. After a year without Operation Red Nose, the helpful program returns for this holiday season.

Langley Minor Hockey Association have announced they will pick up the slack and provide the service for White Rock/Langley & Surrey. The program goes into effect this weekend and runs right through to January 01, 2020.

If you feel your ability to operate a vehicle over the holidays has been impaired by anything, give them a call.

The number to call for a ride is 604-539-9082.

December 18, 2019

Movin' Out

The Kentucky Fried Chicken KFC restaurant on Johnston road is no more. Yesterday a moving crew arrived and cleaned the restaurant out.

Meanwhile just north in South Surrey POPEYE'S Louisiana Chicken now located in the old location of FATBURGER has them lined up out the door.

COMMENTS FROM FACEBOOK

Weston Carmody I was the manager in 1972 of KFC. Child labour huh? But I did get to meet the original Colonel! That was cool. We had a full sized cut out of the Colonel in the lobby. One day the door rang, I went out to find no one and no Colonel cut out! Some 2-3 hours later another door ding and no one in the store except a letter marked "manager". I opened it to find a polaroid picture of the Colonel gagged and bound in chains! And a ransom note for a bucket of chicken and 1/2 gallon of orange honeydew drink to be left out at the sign by 5 PM. I complied and soon up rolls a 57 Chevy three guys jump out drop the Colonel and pick up the loot! Thanks to Barry Kerfoot, Jim Goodie, and Ken Sully? Best prank ever! Only in a small town in the 70's! Now a prank like that would put you in jail ..sad!

Debbie Renner The day we moved to White Rock, Christmas 1974, we had Kentucky Fried Chicken for dinner, so sad to see the end of this chain in our not so little town.

December 17, 2019

Surrey Council Approves Budget - Private Police Force

Emotions ran wild last evening at the Surrey council meeting. The hotly contested privatization of the police force from the RCMP was front and centre. Opponents of the plan were out in force and very vocal in the council chambers. At one point Mayor McCallum and his supporters on council McCallum ( Doug Elford, Laurie Guerra, Mandeep Nagra and Allison Patton) walked out of the council chambers. Once calm was somewhat restored McCallum and his supportive members of council voted to approve the 129 million dollar budget for the coming year.

Voting in opposition were councillors Pettigrew, Annis, Locke and Hundial.

White Rock Council

White Rock council last evening voted to begin discussions with the Semiahmoo First Nations on the renaming of the Marine Drive Park which now has officially been recognized as home to Grand Chief Bernard Chaarles Plaza. 

In the past few months the Semiahmoo Nation has registered its displeasure with the park being named Totem Park, as the poles are not totem poles but house poles. Quietly without ceremony the city removed the Totem Park sign last week.

December 16, 2019

ALEX FRASER Zipper Truck

Rush hour commuters will get their first look this coming week at the new ZIPPER TRUCK which will change the traffic flow. A movable median has now been added to the bridge which with the help of the ZIPPER TRUCK will enable traffic officials to change the north and or southbound lanes from 3 lanes to 4 lanes depending on which way the traffic is moving.

December 12, 2019

New Surrey Top Cop

Surrey RCMP has announced Chief Superintendent BRIAN EDWARDS as the incoming Officer-In-Charge of Surrey RCMP. EDWARDS up until this announcement headed up IHIT.

EDWARDS makes his home in White Rock.

December 10, 2019

A Second Hospital Is Coming to Surrey

Following the purchase of the site for a new, state-of-the-art facility, the project is moving to the business-planning phase.

Surrey’s new hospital will be built in Cloverdale beside the Kwantlen Polytechnic University campus at 5500 180 St.

“This is a great day for people in Surrey as we are delivering a new hospital in the community,” said Premier John Horgan. “Surrey is a fast-growing community and people will be able to count on better health care close to home for generations to come with the approval of this project.”

The new Surrey hospital will have inpatient beds, an emergency department, operating rooms, laboratory and diagnostic services, and outpatient services.

“We are now all systems go for a second hospital in Surrey,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “The Premier promised the City of Surrey a new hospital and today, we are delivering on that promise. This is a key commitment to help meet the health-care needs of Surrey’s rapidly growing community.”

The business-plan phase will now get underway and finalize details such as the project scope and budget for the new facility. Upon approval of the business plan, the project will proceed to procurement and then construction. Community participation will take place in the months ahead for people to engage in the planning process. 

Concept planning is an important part of the process for planning a new hospital. It’s an opportunity to make sure the new facility meets community needs and future demands. The plan outlines a high-level vision, providing a framework for projected health services and infrastructure.

This hospital is part of work underway to deliver comprehensive health services for people in Surrey, including a new urgent and primary care centre, a new mental health and substance use urgent care response centre, and a second MRI machine at Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre.

Arrests Made Following Elgin School Threat

Surrey RCMP Youth Unit has arrested two youths in relation to a threat made against Elgin Park Secondary School in mid-November.

On November 14, 2019, Elgin Park Secondary School received a threat by telephone which prompted a large deployment of emergency resources including Surrey RCMP, integrated police services, and Surrey Fire Services. The threat prompted the school to be put in ‘hold and secure’ temporarily, while police investigated.

Following an investigation by the Surrey RCMP Youth Unit, two 15 year-old youths were arrested. In accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the youths will not be identified. One of the youths was released with a promise to appear in court at a later date, charged with Public Mischief. The second youth is actively participating in extra-judicial measures in lieu of charges.

“We respond seriously to threats, treating them as credible until we can prove otherwise. We also investigate and pursue those responsible for false threats just as vigorously,” said Sergeant David Fouche, Surrey RCMP Youth Unit. “Not only do these types of threats cause significant and unwarranted concern for families, they also divert emergency services away from where they may be needed elsewhere in the city.”

Anyone who has information about this incident that hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to call the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

December 09, 2019

Surrey's dog licensing renewal is just around the corner. 

Remember to renew online, by phone or at the Surrey Animal Resource Centre by January 31.

***Contest Alert***

Enter to win 1 of 3 dog license prizes (value of $46.50) by commenting with a photo of your dog in the Facebook posts related to the Surrey Dog License Photo Contest.

December 06, 2019

December 04, 2019

BUDGET BACKLASH

Statement from Assistant Commissioner Dwayne McDonald

As Surrey’s Mayor and Council move towards final adoption of a 2020 budget that does not allow for any additional police resources for the second year in a row, it is important that we acknowledge the detrimental effect this will have on our service delivery model and on the health and wellness of our members and municipal support staff.

The City of Surrey previously denied my request for 12 additional officers for 2019 and it was made clear to me that any additional requests for police resources would not be entertained while the city is petitioning the province for a municipal police service.

The Surrey RCMP is committed to public safety, but also to the safety and wellness of our officers and employees. The senior leadership team will continue to advocate for adequate resources, even as the City of Surrey and Province of BC work to determine the future of policing in Surrey.

I commend the Surrey RCMP police officers and support staff who have continued to provide excellent police services to the city during this challenging period. To the residents of Surrey, the safety of your homes, your families, and your neighbourhoods remains our top priority, as always.

DWAYNE MCDONALD

The cities of Surrey and Vancouver have recently come under public criticism for rising property taxes in both the cities. Cuts to what many residents would consider essential services have fallen victim to cuts in staff and services.

White Rock begins their process of creating their operating budgets beginning next week. How much of an increase can you expect?

Yesterday the VANCOUVER SUN issued a graph showing a Ten Year Average property tax breakdown

.(click here to compare the major cities in the Lower Mainland)

Ladies First

A recent report created by Kwantlen Polytechnic University student Lisa Hedmark, Hedmark's research revealed the Provincial percentage of women RCMP officers is 24 percent. Nationally the figure of female officers is 22 percent.

Further research revealed the White Rock detachment is made up of 24 officers of which 14 are women totaling 58 percent.

Last year, White Rock RCMP was made up of 24 officers, 14 of whom were women – about 58 per cent. With the inclusion of the newly appointed Staff Sgt. Kale Pauls last month, the ratio currently sits at 56 per cent in favour of women.

December 03, 3019

South Surrey Murder Suspect Arrested In California

Brandon Nathan Tiexeira who has been the subject of a two year long manhunt, has been arrested in California.

Police were informed Teixeira was hiding out in Oroville California. With the assistance of the Butte County Sherrif Office the RCMP surrounded a home and moved forward with their plan to arrest Teixeira. Teixeira exited the house and ignored police commands to surrender eventually climbing into his vehicle and attempting to escape by ramming the officers vehicles. Eventually he was taken down by the K-9 unit.

Teixeira then attempted to drive off, but the BCSO used a second armored vehicle to disable his vehicle.

While executing the search warrant, the sheriff’s office personnel “located approximately 26 pounds of heroin, over 1,000 OxyContin and Percocet pills, and an estimated 40 pounds of marijuana.”

Back in October 2017 in the early morning hours it is alleged Tiexeira killed Nicholas Khabara in South Surrey just off of Crescent Road.

A year ago frustrated by their ability to bring Tiexeira to justice, the reward for his arrest was raised to $55,000.00

“Brandon Teixeira’s arrest is the result of thousands of hours of dedicated work by dozens of officers in CFSEU-BC, IHIT, and many other police agencies in British Columbia and the United States,” says Superintendent Paul Dadwal, Acting Chief Officer for the CFSEU-BC. “Working through the U.S. Thanksgiving weekend, our partners in California were able to take Teixeira into custody. The message to criminals on the run, yet again, is that we will relentlessly pursue you until you face justice.”

Soon after the initial report of the shooting the RCMP received a call from a woman who said she had been shot.

December 02, 2019

Buying local supports B.C. communities

To recognize the contributions local businesses make to their communities and to B.C.’s economy, the B.C. government has proclaimed Dec. 2-8, 2019, as BC Buy Local Week.

Locally owned businesses, growers, manufacturers and service providers are key drivers of B.C.’s thriving economy. Figures from a recent LOCO BC Indie Impact Study show that for every $100 spent locally, up to $63 are recirculated in the community, creating 4.6 times the economic impact over any money spent at non-local businesses. The study also found that local restaurants recirculate 67.9% of all revenues locally compared to multinationals at 30.4%.

Learn More:

LOCO BC and Buy Local Week: https://bcbuylocal.com/bcbuylocalweek/

Resources for small businesses in B.C.: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/small-business

To find information, training and expert advice to start or grow a  business, visit Small Business BC: https://smallbusinessbc.ca/

One deceased, one injured following shots fired - Whalley

UPDATE

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is calling on the public to assist its ongoing homicide investigation in Surrey, B.C.

On December 1, 2019 at approximately 10:51 p.m., the Surrey RCMP responded to reports of gunfire in the area of 136A Street and 114 Avenue. Verron Nand, 21-years-old, was found on the ground with gunshot wounds along with a second male victim. Nand was pronounced dead at scene and the second male was taken to hospital and is currently in stable condition. 

Surrey RCMP is assisting the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) following a shots fired incident in the Whalley/City Centre area of Surrey that has left one man deceased and one man injured.

On December 1, 2019, shortly before 11:00 pm, Surrey RCMP responded to the 13600-block of 114 Avenue after a report of shots fired was received. Upon police attendance, one adult male was found deceased and one injured male from apparent gunshot wounds. The injured man has been transported to the hospital in serious condition.

IHIT has been engaged and are actively investigating the incident. The victims are known to police and this is believed to be a targeted incident.

Police are seeking the public’s assistance and are asking anyone who may have witnessed this incident, or have video surveillance or dash-cam video to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.solvecrime.ca.

December 02, 2019

Ferry Service On The Fraser?

The METRO VANCOUVER has asked TRANSLINK to conduct a survey on the feasibility of running foot passenger service up and down the Fraser River.

December 01, 2019

November 30, 2019

Huge Drug Busts

Targeted enforcement leads to large seizure of cash and drugs

The Surrey RCMP Gang Enforcement Team (SGET) has had a successful November, with three significant seizures of suspected cocaine and cash since November 8, 2019.

As a result of their continued strategic targeted enforcement in Surrey, SGET has successfully interdicted more than 30 kilograms of cocaine, $125,000 in cash, and have arrested six men in connection with drug trafficking. 

The seizure of 392 grams, just under a pound, of suspected cocaine, occurred on November 8th, 2019 at 11:30 pm. SGET officers conducted a traffic stop with a vehicle in the area of 152 Street and 81 Avenue. 
While conducting an investigation under the Motor Vehicle Act, Officers made a number of observations which led to the discovery of hidden compartments within the vehicle, and a large paint tray of suspected bulk, powdered cocaine. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were arrested for possession of a substance for the purpose of trafficking, and have been released from custody while the investigation is on-going.

On November 9th, 2019 at 6:30 pm, SGET officers pulled over a vehicle in the area of 140 Street and 108 Avenue, Surrey to check the sobriety of the driver after observing the vehicle cross the solid line at the shoulder of the road. The driver was found to have an expired BC Drivers Licence and upon further investigation of the vehicle and its occupants, items consistent with drug trafficking, including multiple cellphones, a quantity of MDMA and currency were found. A search of the vehicle revealed a cardboard box containing multiple bundles of cash wrapped in elastic bands, later counted to be in excess of $125,000 Cdn. The driver and passenger were arrested for possession of property obtained by crime over $5000. The passenger was also arrested for drug possession. Both men in this investigation have been released from police custody pending further investigation.

A seizure of approximately 30 kilograms of suspected cocaine were seized from a vehicle on November 22, 2019 shortly after 6:00 pm. SGET Officers conducted a traffic stop with a vehicle in the 11900-block of 80 Avenue. During the traffic stop, the officers observed a suspicious bag in the vehicle, subsequent investigation of that bag revealed 30 individually wrapped packages of suspected cocaine. Officers also located and seized $5000.00 in cash and a $25,000 money order. The driver and passenger were both arrested for possession of a substance for the purpose of trafficking and were released pending further investigation.

The cocaine seized in relation to these investigations is in excess of 120,000 doses. All three of these investigations are on-going with the assistance of the Surrey RCMP Drug Unit.

“Drug trafficking is a significant driver of violent criminal activity, not only in Surrey, but across the Lower Mainland,” said Inspector Mike Hall, Surrey RCMP Pro-active Enforcement Officer. “These three interdictions will have a significant impact on the flow of cocaine at the street level, and represent a significant financial hit to the network of drug traffickers these seizures are associated to.”

November 28, 2019

Chinese government won't be allowed to sponsor future B.C. local government conventions

A controversial reception annually hosted by the Chinese government to wine and dine B.C. politicians is officially no more. 

The Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) executive announced it banned sponsorships by foreign governments at its annual convention, following an independent panel's report on how the convention is financed.

(read the full story)

November 27, 2019

British Columbia Makes Indigenous Peoples History

Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Regional Chief Terry Teegee, BC Assembly of First Nations; Cheryl Casimer, First Nations Summit; Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of BC Indian Chiefs; and Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands and member of Tsartlip First Nation, have issued the following statement:

“Today, we have made history. British Columbia is the first province in Canada to enshrine the human rights of Indigenous peoples in law. Bill 41, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples act, passed unanimously on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019.

“The legislation establishes the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as the foundational framework for reconciliation in B.C., as called for by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The provincial government developed Bill 41 in collaboration with the First Nations Leadership Council, which was acting on the direction of First Nations leaders throughout the province. A commitment to adopting the Declaration is a component of the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the B.C. government and the BC Green Party caucus.

“This legislation advances a path forward to true reconciliation for all of us in B.C. that will uphold Indigenous rights and create stronger communities, stable jobs and economic growth.

"It is time we recognize and safeguard Indigenous peoples’ human rights, so that we may finally move away from conflict, drawn-out court cases and uncertainty, and move forward with collaboration and respect. Ensuring that Indigenous peoples are part of the policy-making and decision-making processes that affect them, their families and their territories is how we will create more certainty and opportunity for Indigenous peoples, B.C. businesses, communities and families everywhere.

“Any future changes to bring provincial laws into harmony with the UN Declaration will be done in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous peoples, with opportunities for engagement with local governments and stakeholders such as business and industry. Changes won’t happen overnight – this will be a gradual, step-by-step process over time.

“The development of an action plan – in collaboration with Indigenous peoples – with regular reporting to monitor progress will provide a transparent and accountable path forward on reconciliation in B.C.

“Working together, we have made significant progress in the past two years and we have seen critical advancements with affordable housing, child welfare, language revitalization and revenue sharing. This legislation will help us build upon this progress and make a real, meaningful difference in the lives of Indigenous families and everyone in B.C.”

Come In From Out In The Cold

The White Rock COLD SHELTER opened its doors last evening. The hours location and location;

9 p.m. to 7 a.m. at Star of the Sea Hall (15262 Pacific Ave.) 

If you see someone sleeping outside in our community please direct them to the shelter.

November 23, 2019

City and Museum apologize to Semiahmoo First Nation for 1990s’ incident

In a private ceremony on Nov. 21, 2019, the City of White Rock and the White Rock Museum and Archives apologized to the Semiahmoo First Nation for an incident that took place in the 1990s.

The Semiahmoo First Nation and the White Rock Museum and Archives made an agreement in the 1970s that the Museum would manage the Semiahmoo artifacts from St. Anne’s Church. The artifacts were displayed for a number of years and then put into storage. It was discovered in the 1990s that the larger pieces, stored at Centennial Arena, were missing and could not be located.

Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell
“We, as Semiahmoo leadership, are very pleased to begin a positive process solidified in ceremony and facilitated by the City of White Rock and the White Rock Museum and Archives. 

Our ceremonies are the foundation to reconciling unfortunate, historic wrongs. The Semiahmoo people are invested in, and excited about, a renewed relationship both with the City of White Rock and with the White Rock Museum and Archives.” 

Karin Bjerke-Lisle, Executive Director,
White Rock Museum and Archives
“We cannot replace the artifacts that have been lost, but we can treasure and protect the Semiahmoo First Nation artifacts in our care. We can also ensure that we share the rich and vibrant history of the Semiahmoo First Nation with the people who live in White Rock and our many visitors through exhibits at the White Rock Museum and Archives.”

November 22, 2019

One man injured in Guildford shooting

The Surrey RCMP Serious Crime Unit is investigating a shooting that occurred overnight in the Guildford area.

On November 21, 2019, at 9:00 pm, police responded to a report of gunshots heard, and a vehicle collision in the 14600-block of 83 Avenue. Frontline officers quickly located the vehicle which had collided with a fence, and found a man with an apparent gunshot wound. The man was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

This investigation is in its early stages however this is believed to be a targeted incident. There is no indication of a continued risk to the public in relation to this incident.

Anyone who has information regarding this incident or that has CCTV or dashcam footage is asked to call the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

HIT called after two deceased located in Surrey residence

Shortly before 5 p.m. on November 21, 2019, frontline officers with Surrey RCMP attended a residence in the 14000-block of 102A Avenue, Surrey. Inside, they located two deceased persons, and subsequently called in the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).

“Although our investigation is in its early stages, at this time it appears as though one of the deceased was the victim of a homicide. We are working hard to gather evidence to identify the events surrounding this tragedy,” says Constable Harrison Mohr with IHIT.

Initial indications are that this was an isolated incident with no risk to the public. “We are not looking for any outstanding suspects, and can confirm that both persons knew each other,” Cst. Mohr says.

Officers from IHIT, along with the Victim Services unit from the Surrey RCMP are in the process of reaching out to the family and friends of the people involved. We will be offering our support to them, and seeking any information they can provide.

IHIT may be in the area for several days, as officers continue to process evidence and conduct a thorough examination of the scene.

November 21, 2019

Cloverdale Train Collision with Pedestrian

Surrey RCMP were called to a collision involving a train and pedestrian in the Cloverdale Area last evening.

At approximately 7:20 PM, Surrey RCMP responded to a collision between a train and pedestrian near the intersection of 53rd Avenue, at 184th Street.

Initial indications are that serious and potentially life threatening injuries have been sustained by the male pedestrian, as a result of this collision.

Traffic in the area will be affected for an undetermined time as officers continue their investigation. A road closure is in effect for 184th Street between the intersection of 54th Avenue and 5000 block. The public are requested to avoid the area until further notice.

The investigation into the collision is in its early stages. Investigators are seeking witnesses who observed the collision to contact the Surrey RCMP. An updated release will be provided when further information is available and the road has been re-opened.

Anyone with more information about this incident, who has not yet spoken to police, is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

UPDATE to Train Collision with Pedestrian

Surrey RCMP is updating the public that the man who was struck by a train on November 20, 2019 in Cloverdale has died.

County awards $8.7 million for berm construction

A windstorm and high tide pushed water over the roadway at Birch Bay Drive on December 20, 2018. The berm project will place about 210,000 tons of sand and gravel on the beach to "renaturalize" it and guard against storm surges.

The December 20th 2018 winter storm that destroyed our famous pier in White Rock, also did major damage to the waterfront in Birch Bay. It was announced this week Whatcom County has awarded the contract for $8.7 million to rebuild the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility commonly called the berm.

According to preliminary plans, construction of the berm will take place over two years, breaking during the summer months to have a minor impact on tourism.

November 20, 2019

Back To Ottawa

I swore my oath of office today in Ottawa as Member of Parliament for South Surrey-White Rock. Very proud to represent my beautiful home community in the House of Commons! 

My husband, Brent, and I toured West Block afterward.

Kerry Lynne Findlay MP South Surrey - White Rock

Dallas Smith, Terri Clark to perform on CP Holiday Train’s B.C. stops

Annual festive food bank fund raiser rolling across province from Dec. 11 to 17

Local stop - Port Coquitlam December 17.

More info as we get closer to the date. Here is their brand new duet single "One Drink Ago"

November 19, 2019

White Rock Council Rewind

Last evening White Rock council;

- Brought in a new by-law that will put teeth in the short term vacation rentals (IE: Air B n B). IN a report to council last evening resident CHRISTIAN LANE informed council there are currently 141 Air B n B ads for White Rock. LANE also quoted CMHC lists White Rock as having 1300 long term rental units. Currently there is a 1.1% vacancy rate in White Rock. Council is hopeful the new legislation will help free up more long term rentals in White Rock.

- The majority of council supported a staff recommendation to curb encroachment on to city property. Council was presented with a collection of photos of existing encroachment st on to city property, normally on the boulevard in front of homes. Only new encroachments will be pursued. If a resident has paved over, erected a structure or taken over any portion of city property and if it has been this way for a period of time, it will be allowed to stay. Councillors KRISTJANSON and CHESNEY voted in opposition.

Staff indicated they are still working on the requested staff report on the encroachment of the city's road ends on the hillside. These infractions will be dealt with separately.

-White Rock resident KEVIN THOMPSON appeared before council requesting White Rock move towards being a "pollinator" city. THOMPSON presented a short list of initiatives the city can immediately take to support the natural habitat for bees to flourish in our "city by the sea." If you care to read more, here is a link to one of the websites THOMPSON identified. (click here)

- Council was introduced to the new head of the White Rock RCMP (see below)

White Rock's New Top Cop

SGT. Kale Paul (centre)

The City of White Rock is pleased to welcome Staff Sgt. Kale Pauls as the new commander of the White Rock detachment of the RCMP effective Nov. 18. 

Staff Sgt. Pauls is a 15-year member of the RCMP, most recently as the Surrey detachment’s Strategic Planning commander and as a member of the Surrey Contract Management Project Team. He has a degree in psychology and a Masters in Criminal Justice.

Staff Sgt. Pauls joined the RCMP in 2004, following a career as a community mental health worker. He started in general duty in Salmon Arm and Alexis Creek. In 2009, he moved to the Kamloops RCMP General Investigation Section in the area of drug and property crime. In Kamloops, he helped to establish a police-mental health crisis car.

Promoted to Corporal in 2013, Staff Sgt. Pauls moved to the Mission detachment and served as commander of the General Investigation Section. Staff Sgt. Pauls was an expert in providing testimony at Provincial Court in the area of cocaine, heroin and fentanyl trafficking.

November 18, 2019

We're Not Playing Around

When the City of White Rock was approached by our two local elementary schools (Peach Arch and White Rock Elementary) expressing their need for new playground equipment, the city of White Rock started the ball rolling.

The White Rock Rotary Club took over from there and voila, the first stage of the first playground has been completed.

The Rotary Club of White Rock is currently fundraising to complete the task so please help their cause!

November 16, 2019

Missing person to locate – Micyla “Amber” HAVENGA

Surrey RCMP is appealing for information regarding a 16 year old female, Micyla "Amber" HAVENGA, who was last seen on November 12th, 2019.

Micyla HAVENGA is described as a 16-year-old Caucasian female, 5'1" tall, 99 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes (See attached photo). Micyla HAVENGA 

was last seen wearing a black Adidas sweat pants, black crop top, pink hoodie, and carrying a small black backpack in the area of 14th Ave and 133A street, Surrey.

Police and family are concerned for her well-being. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

If you wish to make an anonymous report please contact CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca quoting file number 2019-175999.

November 13, 2019

White Rock Takes A New Direction

CAO Dan Bottrill
White Rock City Council wishes to advise that it has decided to embark on a new direction for the management of its organization. 

With the assistance of the Chief Administrative Officer, Dan Bottrill, the City will undergo a transition period over the next several months, which will see the hiring of a new CAO. 

Accordingly, as of March 31, 2020, Dan will be completing his service to our community and moving on in his career to undertake other endeavours.

Surrey Langley SkyTrain Engagement

Public engagement has started. Until Nov. 17, provide feedback through our online survey and/or attend one of our open houses.

Complete a Survey

This survey seeks your feedback on:

• the proposed placement of the SkyTrain guideway along Fraser Highway

• access to SkyTrain and integration with other modes of transportation

• the Environmental Screening Review (ESR)

• rapid transit on 104 Avenue and King George Boulevard

If you are interested in reading a summary of the draft Terms of Reference for the Environmental Screening Review (ESR) before you complete the survey, visit the Document Library.

(click here to take the survey - have your say)

November 12, 2019

101st Anniversary

The crowd in attendance for the White Rock city hall Remembrance Day ceremony was huge. Local politicians on hand were MP Kerry Lynne Findlay, MLA Tracy Redies and White Rock council.

The solemn ceremony marked 100 years since the guns fell silent to mark the end of World War II.

I was honoured to be asked to lay a wreath on behalf of the Peace Arch Hospice Society. As well fellow board of director Barb Howes and I laid a wreath at the cenotaph from Sunnyside Villas supportive housing.

October 04, 2019

Jinny Sims Resigns

Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement:

“This afternoon, I was advised by the Attorney General of the appointment of a special prosecutor for an RCMP investigation related to MLA Jinny Sims.

“Jinny Sims has resigned from cabinet during the investigation. I accepted her resignation as appropriate under the circumstances. We take any such investigation very seriously.

“While we await the conclusion of the matter, I have asked Minister Selina Robinson to temporarily assume responsibility as Minister of Citizens’ Services.”

"The BC Liberals have raised countless questions for months about Jinny Sims' conduct in government and in her community. This ranges from breaking [Freedom of Information] rules as the minister responsible, to her decision to write letters of immigration support for people on terrorist watch lists".

Earlier this year, the B.C. Liberals requested a police investigation into a series of allegations made by a former constituency assistant in Sims' office.

Kate Gillie — who was fired after working for Sims for six weeks — claimed the minister had inappropriately mixed her constituency and ministerial duties in a number of ways. That includes allegations that Sims  wrote visa reference letters for foreign nationals on a security watch list.

October 03, 2019

The Great Divide

A Metro Vancouver task force is recommending the province build an eight lane immersed tube tunnel to replace the Massey Tunnel.

At a meeting on Wednesday, Metro Vancouver mayors reviewed six shortlisted options put together by B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation, including a new multi-lane tunnel and a six-to-eight lane bridge.

They formally endorsed the immersed tunnel option for a new Massey Tunnel crossing, despite an acknowledgment it could take longer to get environmental approval and would require more agricultural land than a bridge.

Of the municipalities represented on the task force, the Tsawwassen First Nation was the only community to oppose the recommendation. Chief Ken Baird says he’s worried about the impact the project would have on wildlife.

It’s not clear when construction would start on the new crossing, but it’s been two years since the construction of a previously-approved 10 lane bridge was halted.

The next step will be to go to the public with the options

September 20, 2019

Charges laid in connection with homicide of Paul Prestbakmo

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is announcing second degree murder charges laid against two male youths with respect to the death of Paul Prestbakmo.

On August 16, 2019 at about 3:23 a.m., 45-year-old Paul Prestbakmo was fatally stabbed in the 1800-block of 152 Street in Surrey, B.C. IHIT took conduct of the investigation and quickly advanced the case with support from its many partners. IHIT and Paul’s family made an appeal to the community for witnesses to come forward and many responded. Witness development was key to this investigation and the information gathered helped shed further light and assisted investigators in piecing together the circumstances surrounding Paul’s death. 

On September 19, 2019, two youths aged 15 and 16 were each charged with second degree murder in connection with Paul’s death. The 15-year-old youth has been in-custody since August 22, 2019 for failing to abide by court imposed conditions. The 16-year-old youth has been in-custody since August 21, 2019 for the same reasons.

“IHIT investigators worked steadfastly to secure and compile the evidence for charge approval and today’s outcome would not have been possible without their tireless efforts,” says Sergeant Frank Jang of IHIT. “We recognize that this is a very difficult time for Paul’s family as they are grieving his death and we hope that we were able to provide them with some answers.” 

“A violent incident like this has significant impacts on both the victim’s family and the surrounding community, as their sense of safety is upended,” says Corporal Elenore Sturko with the Surrey RCMP. “It is our sincere hope that the quick conclusion to this investigation will bring a measure of comfort to both Mr. Prestbakmo’s family and to the South Surrey community.”

Anyone with information, who have yet to come forward to police, is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.solvecrime.ca

No further details will be released as this case is now before the court.

Crime scene behind the local McDonald's restaurant on Johnston Road

 

September 18, 2019

Charges Stayed

Charges of aggravated assault and assault with a weapon have been stayed against an RCMP officer who shot a man nine times during a confrontation in Surrey, B.C.

Documents released by British Columbia’s prosecution service say while evidence shows Const. Elizabeth Cucheran fired the shots at 20-year-old Hudson Brooks, the law is clear that even the mistaken belief in the need to use lethal force is a complete defence.

The service says Brooks had consumed significant quantities of alcohol and cocaine when he was in the parkade at the Surrey RCMP detachment on July 18, 2015.

It says Brooks was shoeless and wearing only boxer shorts, and screamed “Kill you! Kill me! Kill you!” as he used his fists, knees and shoulder to hammer at the driver’s door and windows of an officer’s SUV.

The prosecution service says when other officers confronted Brooks, he charged Cucheran, who stepped backwards while firing at him until she tripped and Brooks fell at her feet then crawled on top of her.

It says Cucheran fired her weapon 12 times, hitting Brooks nine times and shot herself in the leg while she was on her back.

Initially, the Crown concluded that the shots the officer fired weren’t legally justifiable.

“While there was no doubt she was entitled to use some degree of force to defend herself as Mr. Brooks approached, the Crown was satisfied she was not entitled to resort to lethal force as soon as she did,” the prosecution service says in a statement.

But it said the evidence brought out at a preliminary inquiry significantly weakened the foundation of the Crown theory that a Taser provided a reasonable force option for the officer to use to try to stop Brooks.

It said testimony at the preliminary inquiry from experts meant the Crown was unable to prove that Cucheran’s failure to use the Taser when Brooks initially attacked her resulted from “any blameworthy conduct” on her part.

“The Crown is now of the view that the evidence strongly establishes that resort to her firearm was entirely reasonable in the circumstances.”

The prosecution service said it recognizes the case has attracted considerable public attention.

“The (service) also appreciates the importance of transparency in maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice, especially in relation to the use of lethal force by police officers.”

PRESS RELEASE Canadian Press September 18, 2019

(Click here to read the full Stay of Proceedings)

September 17, 2019

Let's Get Cooking

Harley Chappell/Jan

Celebrity chefs came together recently for a fundraising dinner. The event organized by the FRIENDS OF THE PIER raised over $100,000.00 in their continued efforts to support the fundraising for the reconstruction of White Rock's infamous pier.

Friend of the Pier is working with the City to raise funds. To purchase a plank go to www.friendsofthepier.cominstallation of plank recognition is to begin shortly on the new section and will be completed during October, for the planks that have been purchased. 

Friends of the Pier have over 200 planks purchased and committed so far. There will be a cheque presentation to the City sometime in October.

September 16, 2019

Final week to submit your ideas for Transport 2050

Metro Vancouver residents have only seven days left to share their big ideas for Transport 2050 – the blueprint for the next 30-years of transportation in the region. The first phase of engagement currently has input from every regional municipality and over 2,000 ideas have been submitted.

“Long-term transportation planning is critical to the prosperity and livability of our region,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond. “The planning for many big projects like the Canada Line, Evergreen Extension, and RapidBus routes began in Transport 2021 – which was written in the early nineties. Transport 2050 is our largest engagement ever and a real opportunity for every person to help shape the long-term future of Metro Vancouver.”

Transport 2050 will create a 30-year vision for all transportation of people and goods throughout the region. TransLink is asking for input from everyone – whether they mostly drive, walk, cycle, or take transit.

Residents are encouraged to share:
What they value about living in the region
Ideas on how to improve or expand transit
Ideas on the future of transportation
Opinions on emerging modes of transport including automated, connected, electric and shared mobility such as ride-hailing, car sharing, and shared micromobility options like e-bikes and e-scooters

The Transport 2050 engagement team has reached communities in every regional municipality since engagement launched in May. The survey is available online in English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Punjabi.

The first phase of Transport 2050 ends on Sunday, September 22. TransLink will then review the data and early next year will present packages of projects, policies and programs to the public to help evaluate the tradeoffs.

More information:
Transport 2050 survey (English)
Transport 2050 survey (Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese)
Transport 2050 survey (Punjabi)

September 15, 2019

Saddle Sore

Katie and Jewel Keca

Yesterday afternoon sisters KATIE and JEWEL KECA slowly rode their horses down the street in Crescent Beach. The two riders eased their mounts into the Pacific Ocean which marked their cross country trip on horseback.

The sisters began this ride by crossing the country in sections. The final stage brought them through the Rockies this summer, at times riding 12 hours a day.

The sisters ride raised money for the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. Information about their cause, and their blog full of photos and stories, can be found here.

(click here for more information on the Guide Dog charity)

Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision -152 Street and 56 Avenue (Highway 10)

Last evening (Saturday) at approximately 10:34 pm, Surrey RCMP responded to a collision at the intersection of 152 Street and 56 Avenue (Highway 10). 
Upon arrival members determined that this was a pedestrian struck collision and the pedestrian was pronounced deceased on scene.

Traffic in the area will be affected for an undetermined time as officers continue their investigation. 
The entire intersection of 152 Street and Highway 10 will be shut down in all directions with traffic being diverted prior to the intersection. 
The public are requested to avoid the area until further notice.
The investigation into the collision is in its early stages. Investigators are seeking witnesses who observed the collision, or who observed the vehicle prior to the collision, to contact the Surrey RCMP. Investigators are also seeking any available dash-cam video.

Anyone with more information about this incident, who has not yet spoken to police, is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

September 09, 2019

Gone Gone Gone

Over the weekend a tug pulled into Semiahmoo Bay, secured the barge used for repairing our iconic pier and off they sailed.

Destination? Back to Seattle where everything will be stored. Thank You.

September 06, 2019

South Surrey Murder

RCMP PRESS RLEASE

At around 12:30 am today, Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a
shooting in the 1600 block of 160 Street in South Surrey. A 46-year-old
man was found suffering from gunshot wounds inside a house at that
location. He was transported to hospital, but sadly died from his
injuries. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) was called
in earlier this morning and is now leading this investigation, working
alongside Surrey RCMP and the Integrated Forensic Identification
Services.

Surrey RCMP have arrested two male suspects in relation to this
homicide. They remain in custody, but no charges have been laid at this
time. Both males were known to the victim, and police do not believe
that there are any outstanding suspects.

"This appears to be a tragic and isolated incident," said Constable
Harrison Mohr with IHIT. "Our thoughts are with the victim’s family,
and our team of investigators are working diligently to try to find the
answers his family needs, as well as the answers we need for a
successful investigation."

To Build...or not to build

Sidewalk fore-mans assumed with the destruction of the old Beaver Lumber/Deals World building in the 100 block of Johnston road, the developers would soon begin work on the construction of their 12 storey highrise.

Better Not Call Saul

Surrey RCMP is updating the public on the investigation of a shooting which injured two men in the Fraser Heights Area, on September 3, 2019.

At this time, investigators believe this shooting was a targeted incident connected to drug trafficking in the area. While police have not found any indication of a continued risk in the area of the shooting, one of the victims involved is now the subject of a warning to the public.

Surrey RCMP are cautioning the public against interaction with Thomas Gabriel Saul, who has been the target of recent incidents of shots fired. (see attached photo)

Thomas Gabriel Saul, age 35, from New Westminster, BC, has been the victim or intended victim of shootings that have occurred in Surrey, and Burnaby this summer. He has been spoken to by investigators and, although his life is in danger, he has provided very limited information to police. As such, Surrey RCMP believes that he has become a risk to public safety.

Thomas Saul was the target of a shooting on August 21, 2019, in Burnaby (see news release), and was one of the victims in the shooting which occurred in the Fraser Heights area of Surrey, on September 3, 2019.

UPDATE - shooting in Fraser Heights

Surrey RCMP is providing a further update on the investigation of a shooting which occurred in Fraser Heights. (See previous release)

Investigators from the Surrey RCMP Serious Crime Unit are releasing a photo of a black Dodge Journey, which is a suspect vehicle in the September 3, 2019, shooting. 

Anyone with information about this vehicle, or any additional information about this incident is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or go to www.solvecrime.ca.

August 28, 2019

COME ONE COME ALL

The first local all candidates meeting for the upcoming Federal election has been announced.

Friday October 04 @ The Star of the Sea auditorium.

15262 Pacific Avenue in White Rock. Doors 6 p.m. Debate 6:30 p.m.

August 27, 2019

It's Open

With a press contingent on hand Canada's Longest Pier was reopened this morning.

The city of White Rock will host an official opening ceremony on September 21.

In the meantime and in between time come on down.

August 26, 2019

August 25, 2019

White Rock RCMP are seeking information

White Rock RCMP are seeking information with regards to an assault that occurred in the early morning hours of August 16th, 2019. Surveillance video has determined that the male in his 60’s left his residence around 2:30 a.m. wearing a distinctive yellow and black jacket with a camouflage ball cap. He was then seen in the 1600-block of 152 Street shortly before 3 a.m. CCTV footage at his residence showed the assault victim returning home at approximately 4:30 a.m. without his cap and with noticeable injuries.

Investigators believe the assault occurred sometime around 3 a.m. and are asking public assistance to pinpoint the exact location where the assault took place. The current location of the victim’s camouflage ball cap is unknown and anyone with information is urged to contact White Rock RCMP immediately at 778-593-3600.

Surrey Shooting

Friday evening around 9 p.m. a vehicle arrived at the emergency entrance of Surrey Memorial with a passenger who was suffering from a gunshot wound. The ER was immediately locked down for safety reasons. Surrey RCMP have not released any further details. 

Two men injured in shooting in Whalley

Surrey RCMP is advising the public of a shooting which injured two men
in Whalley. 

At approximately 7:59 pm, on August 23, 2019, Surrey RCMP responded to
a report of a shooting at a residence in the 13500 block of 96th Avenue
in Surrey. Both male victims were dropped off at local hospitals at
different times; both were suffering from gun-shot wounds. Both are in
stable condition. 

Surrey RCMP’s Serious Crime Unit is investigating. Early indications
are that this was a targeted incident and may be connected to drug
activity. It is believed at this time there is no risk to the public. 

Investigators are asking anyone with information about this incident to
contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain
anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or go to
www.solvecrime.ca. 

August 24, 2019

Waterfront Brightened Up

Make sure you stop by the "selfie wall" on Marine Drive in White Rock this weekend. 

Located across the street from the museum on Marine Drive, north side of the street where the old grocery store was next to the abandoned PEARL restaurant was.

August 23, 2019

It's A Go For Surrey Municipal Police Force

White Rock RCMP Reaching Out

The White Rock RCMP are reaching out to the community to gauge where some of the traffic hot spots are in out city. Call them on their non-emergency phone#;s

778-593-3600

...or click on the TWITTER link below. 

Are You Worried About Bus Service on the Semiahmoo Peninsula?

Shape the future of how we move. And live. TransLink has launched its largest public engagement in history. Take the survey at www.transport2050.ca #Transport2050

TransLink is leading the development of Transport 2050, a new Regional Transportation Strategy. The new strategy will help lay out future options for getting around in Metro Vancouver, guiding transportation decisions for decades to come.

August 21, 2019

On Friday August 16th at 3am Paul was killed in White Rock while going to get a pop at McDonalds, the cowards that killed him left him lying there begging for help, but the paramedics were too late and sadly Pauly passed away.
  We are fundraising for funeral costs to give Paul the funeral he deserves, everyone who knew Paul knew he'd give the shirt off his back to help any of his friends, please help with anything you can give to help us give Paul the celebration of life we all know he deserves.
Many of us have funny stories and many many nicknames from Paul and I look forward to sharing them with you all.

Update on the homicide investigation of Paul Prestbakmo

Background: On August 16, 2019 at approximately 3:23 a.m., police found 45-year-old Delphin Paul Prestbakmo with fatal stab wounds in the 1800-block of 152 Street of Surrey, B.C. The Integrated Police Dog Services deployed to the scene and tracked to a nearby house where one male was arrested. This male has since been released from police custody pending further investigation. IHIT detectives are continuing to actively gather the evidence for furtherance to the B.C. Prosecution Service for charge assessment.

After careful examination of the information collected so far, investigators believe that the suspects may have known Mr. Prestbakmo. However, investigators believe this was an unprovoked attack. The nature of the incident is still under investigation.

IHIT has also learned of an incident that occurred that same night that resulted in the victim, a man in his sixties, sustaining extensive injuries. The victim was seen at 11:55 p.m. (Aug. 15) at the Coast Capital Savings in the 1700-block of 152 Street. This incident is being investigated by the White Rock RCMP and IHIT is working with their investigators to explore any possible linkages between the two cases. Anyone with information regarding this particular incident is asked to contact police immediately.

The family of Mr. Prestbakmo is appealing for the public’s help for information that could help solve his murder.

Letter from the family of Paul Prestbakmo

We should not have to be here today making this statement. I never thought I would have to stand here today and read this statement from our family, about the sudden death of our beloved brother, son, uncle, friend and spouse, Dephin Paul Prestbakmo. Pauly, as most knew him.

I am having difficulty finding the right words - if there are any, to express the heartache, emptiness and devastating sense of loss our family has experienced with the sudden death and loss of our brother Paul Our lives were forever shattered into pieces.

We have come forward here today to release this statement in the hopes that our community understands our brother Paul was a victim of a heinous murder and we need your help.

Paul was suddenly taken from us in the early hours of Friday morning, August 16, 2019 when he was attacked and murdered while walking near the Semiahmoo Mall in South Surrey and those responsible remain at large.

This tragedy has forever changed the lives of our family and friends for years to come. We will never again be able to hear his infectious rolling belly laugh, his contagious smile that would light up a room and his outrageous sense of humor and his love of life.

Over his short 45-year-life, he made many friends along the way. Helping out folks with mechanical car repairs or helping people move. He was a great-hearted person who would help anyone in need.

His sudden senseless death was devastating news for many friends and the local community. He will be sadly missed by many.

He was taken from our lives too soon. He was an innocent victim of a heinous criminal act and there are people in our community who have the information that can assist with this file.

I would like to end this statement with this one last thing: Our brother, Pauly had a lot of different sayings. One, in particular, sticks out for our family here today that I would like to share: When things were not going so good or working out, he would say "hey, let's make it right! - do the right thing."

So, on behalf of my family and our friends, we speak for our brother Pauly one last time: HEY, LET'S MAKE IT RIGHT AND DO THE RIGHT THING!

We do not wish any repeat of this act to happen to anyone else.

We implore those who have information, to please come forward and report any information to the RCMP. We are hoping that another family will not have to stand here, like we are today and go through what we are going through, requesting the same of our community.

My family and I are asking for your help. Please, if anyone has any relevant information, anything that can help us find those responsible and assist with closure of this case, please come forward. We would really appreciate it.

Please contact IHIT investigators or your local RCMP.

Thank you.

-Angela Prestbakmo (Paul’s sister)

“We know there are witnesses with important information about what happened to Paul who are reluctant to come forward,” says Sergeant Frank Jang of IHIT. “This is an active and ongoing investigation and we need every witness to come forward and speak with IHIT.”

“White Rock RCMP is working closely with IHIT and Surrey RCMP to determine what led to the injuries sustained by the victim in White Rock. The safety of our community is our priority and there will be a focussed effort to determine if these two incidents are connected. Residents will be seeing more uniformed members in the area,” says White Rock RCMP spokesperson Chantal Sears.

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Missing

White Rock RCMP are appealing for help from the public in locating a 58-year-old woman who was last seen on Friday (Aug. 16) morning.

Const. Chantal Sears said Cynthia Neale was reported missing on Sunday.

She was last seen at her home, in the 1300-block of Vidal Street.

“It’s unusual for her to not have any contact,” Sears said.

Neale is described as Caucasian, 120lbs, with white hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a denim jacket and shorts of an unknown colour.

UPDATE

Cynthia Neale has been found safe and sound. Thankfully.

August 17, 2019

Semiahmoo Mall Stabbing Update

A man is dead and another has been arrested after a deadly stabbing in South Surrey Friday morning.

Mounties were called to the area near the Semiahmoo Shopping Centre around 3:00 a.m. When they arrived, they found the victim with stab wounds, who later died of his injuries.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says the arrest was made thanks to the K-9 squad.

“They responded quickly to the incident and they were able to track and… arrest the male that we have in custody at the moment,” Sgt. Frank Jang with IHIT said.

While the Surrey RCMP had reported this appeared to be a targeted incident, IHIT says that has not yet been determined.

Victim Identified

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is requesting public assistance to further its ongoing investigation into the stabbing death of a 45-year-old Surrey man.

Surrey: On August 16, 2019 at approximately 3:23 a.m., the Surrey RCMP received calls about a man found bleeding in the 1700-block of 152 Street. Frontline officers arrived on scene to find 45-year-old Delphin Paul Prestbakmo unresponsive with serious injuries. He was pronounced dead at scene. The Integrated Police Dog Services conducted a track to a nearby residence where one male was taken into custody. IHIT was called in to take conduct of the investigation.

IHIT is currently working closely with its partners from the Surrey RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence.

It is still early in the investigation and investigators are working to determine motive.

“We are releasing the name of our murdered victim in an effort to determine his activities prior to his death. We need Delphin Prestbakmo’s closest friends and associates to come forward,” says Sergeant Frank Jang of IHIT. “We also urge any witnesses who were in the area of the 1700-block of 152 Street to contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Big Change In Valley Bus Service

Anyone that has ever used the bus service between White Rock and Langley, has recognized how many people use that service to get over to White Rock to jump a 351 bus to the Canada Line. September 03 there will be a new service between Langley and the Skytrain station in Whalley.

Fraser Highway Express Schedule:

Fraser Highway Express Stops:

August 16, 2019

Drug Lab seizure in South Surrey linked to Lower Mainland gang conflict

Local RCMP assisted the local gang task force in a raid yesterday just across the White Rock border in South Surrey. The home located in the 16300 block of 14A Avenue had been under surveillance for a period of time. When officers moved in yesterday they found a large cache of weapons and illegal drugs.

Two men were arrested but later released. A police spokesman issued a statement saying the operation was part of a larger gang operation in the Lower Mainland. In a rare move the RCMP went on to say the two individuals arrested were linked to a gang they know as THE BROTHERS KEEPERS.

Congratulations to the White Rock Youth Ambassadors who were given a plank on the pier tonight.

The $1000 came from donations from people and businesses. The idea cam about from a conversation at this years Market at the Tour De White Rock.

Thank you so much
These girls and the ambassadors previous began fundraising $ right after the storm . To date they have raised over $32,000. Thank you girls for caring about our community. We are so proud of you

Christy Fox

(help restore our pier - purchase your own plank, be a part of history)

August 13, 2019

Is Langley a "Happy City?"

NATHAN PACHAL Langley City city councillor passes along the news of Langley's second KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOUR Campaign.

The program gives residents tools to connect with their neighbours, including services available from the city to support these connections such as Block Watch and funding for neighbourhood BBQs, the 2nd Annual Know Your Neighbour Campaign is scheduled to hit the streets on September 28 and October 5.

Last year’s campaign was a big success. To make this year’s campaign even more successful, your help is needed.

The Know Your Neighbour Campaign is an initiative of Langley City’s Crime Prevention Task Group. We need your help to go door-to-door for 2 hours either on Saturdays, September 28 and/or Saturday, October 5. The more people that volunteer, the more neighbourhoods we can visit.

August 11, 2019

Sky Pilots

l-r Captain Sarah Dallaire / Majpr Michelle Curan

Aeronautical history is being made at this year's Abbotsford Air Show. Yesterday marked the first time both the Canadian Snowbirds and the USAF Thuderbirds both had a female pilots in their ranks.

August 10, 2019

Waste Not - Want Not

Did you know our water use can double in the summer months? Largely due to lawn sprinkling, washing patios and cars, and other outdoor uses. 

With warmer weather, please remember that water restrictions are in effect until October 15. Visit www.whiterockcity.ca/mywater from more information on conservation and restrictions.

August 09, 2019

Bear With Me

(click here to donate)

My Brother Lee passed away in a car accident in south surrey early 1998. Was a very difficult time for my Father Frank and I. In memory of Lee, Frank researched and found a granite sculptor who would take on the project of creating this beautiful piece. Frank chose a Grizzly Bear because it was always how he referred to Lee and his personality. Hence the name Grizlee on the plaque that sits at the Bear's feet. Its meant to look across the water at Point Roberts where we camped for most of our summers growing up. 

I argued with my dad when it came to the location. I wanted him to put it somewhere quiet like a golf course where it wouldn't get damaged. He insisted on the location it is now claiming it would be a centerpiece of the beach. 

Turns out we were both right. The amount of people that talk of Grizlee, walk around it, touch its nose, take pics, etc, has been so very rewarding, and that was clearly my Father's vision. However, as beautiful as it is, sadly, Grizlee has taken a lot of abuse over the years. I go on sunday nights to visit, and often see kids climbing all over it. Always upset me but my Dad would remind me its there for people to enjoy. You cant stop it, and much as we would like to. The nose has been knocked off, fixed, knocked off again, eyes hit with rocks and damaged. 

So this being the 20 year mark since Frank had this piece installed, he is now looking to replace it. Obviously this is a pretty substantial cost to him and was going to go about it alone. I have talked him into allowing me to ask for help financially. (he is very private) So here I am, trying to take some of the load off of his back. 

I hope we can raise enough so that we can see a brand new bear soon enough looking over the ocean for all of us to enjoy. I thank you in advance for anyone's help. If anyone has ideas of other ways to raise the money please let me know.

Cory Slavin

London Drugs takes in thousands of pounds of materials not covered by municipal recycling programs and can trace back where every recyclable goes

CARDBOARD / ELECTRONICS

BATTERIES / STYROFOAM

For full information on recycling at London Drugs customers can visit www.greendeal.ca.

Going Green

Green party leader ELIZABETH MAY was recently in our town to congratulate and introduce the candidate for the Green Party/South Surrey-White Rock.

Beverly (Pixie) Hobby pictured above with MAY has been selected to carry the Green Party banner into the Fall election (October 21, 2019)

Since her retirement in 2014, Beverly “Pixie” Hobby has been practicing environmental law representing citizens groups in South Surrey and White Rock, and advising law firms representing First Nations. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Dunsmuir Community Garden Group, the Unity Church of White Rock, and the Turkana Empowerment Project, an African educational charity. Pixie volunteers at Seeds for Change, an initiative to address food insecurity in Surrey, and at Surrey Threshold Singers, a choir sponsored by Surrey Hospice Society. 

In her spare time, Pixie enjoys playing music with friends, organic gardening, beekeeping, kayaking, sailing, skiing and hiking.

August 08, 2019

Police Incident Uptown

The RCMP responded to a call from the staff @ JAVA EXPRESS at the corner of Foster street and North Bluff this morning shortly after 7 a.m. Staff upon arriving at the coffee shop this morning found a homeless man sleeping in front of the door. When asked to leave to facilitate the opening of the restaurant the gentleman refused to move. Upon arrival the RCMP hogtied the man and put him in the back of their SUV. They then proceeded to inspect his belongings which were contained in a number of garbage bags.

August 07, 2019

Stayte Stabbing

White Rock RCMP and Emergency crews quickly responded to reports of a stabbing yesterday morning around 9 a.m. The section of Stayte Road between Pacific and Columbia was shot down to enable the investigation to commence. An air ambulance landed in a nearby elementary schoolyard to transport the victim to a Vancouver hospital. Eventually two suspects who took part in the attack on a lone gentleman in the home on Stayte street were arrested in Cloverdale. The victim remains in hospital with serious injuries.

Air Ambulance @ South meridian elementary

Pierfect

The metal support poles now support concrete cross pieces and a concrete deck for the new portion of our world famous pier.

Wooden braces have now been bolted to the cement slab and soon the wooden rails will be added along with the wooden decking. The finished pier will look and feel exactly like the original upon completion. The city of White Rock is still shooting for an August 31 opening, with an official opening planned for September.

Interestingly enough the barnacles have already started to cover the metal support poles. Life returning to Semiahmoo Bay and Canada's Longest Pier

Put The # In Your Phone

For all of us in White Rock/South Surrey this is an important phone# to have in your cellphone. If you were ever to see any kind of trouble on the tracks along the waterfront, call the BNSF hot line and report it,

White Rock's Sara Groenewegen pitches perfect game at Pan Ams

Sara Groenewegen pitched a perfect game to lead the Canadian women's softball team to an 8-0 win over Venezuela on Monday at the Pan American Games.

Groenewegem struck out 10 in five innings as Canada improved to 2-0 at the tournament.

Softball is back in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after being kept off the schedule the past two Summer Games

Canada will return home for the Americas Olympic Qualifier, Aug. 25-Sept. 1 at Softball City in South Surrey.

We just got a hot tip that the City of White Rock's 5 Corners Buskers & Comedy Festival is still looking for all kinds of buskers, but especially anything variety, clowning, acrobatics, magic, etc., in short, any kind of street performance that goes beyond the ordinary.

May 30, 2019

Clear The Track - The Zalm Is Back

TransLink’s $3 Billion Waste: Exposed!

SPECIAL INVITATION, 3 Nights only!

Please join us and your neighbors to launch our Public Petition:

Reactivate Interurban Passenger Rail for Surrey, Langley, and Chilliwack!

featuring special guest

Premier Bill Vander Zalm (1986–1991)
The man that defeated the HST and saved passenger rail for our region!

with presentations by:

UBC Professor Patrick Condon
Solving the South of Fraser gridlock and affordability crisis

Langley Mayor Rick Green (2008–2011)
What TransLink staff don’t want you to know, see, or hear!

SURREY
June 13th, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
ELEMENTS CASINO
17755 60TH AVE, CLOVERDALE

LANGLEY / ALDERGROVE
June 18th, 7:30 - 9:00 PM
KINSMEN CENTER
26770 29TH AVE, ALDERGROVE

ABBOTSFORD
June 25th, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
UNIVERSITY OF THE FRASER VALLEY
33844 KING RD
ROOM B101

May 29, 2019

The following updates have been provided by the White Rock Engineering Department. Thanks to Jim Gordon and his staff for providing this to Council. Please note all dates are estimates and subject to change.

MEMORIAL PARK

1. Washrooms should be open by this weekend.
2. Different railing options are currently being considered by the City Staff

RAILWAY CROSSINGS

1. All pedestrian rail crossings should be open by mid-June
2. After this is done, the City will apply to the Federal Government for a train whistle cessation. This is out of City control.

EAST BEACH PROMENADE

1. 98% complete
2. Should be open by mid-May
3. Some additional East Beach parking should be opened up before then.
4. Access to East Beach is now open at the Finlay Crossing (by the Sandpiper_

PIER RECONSTRUCTION

1. 1st new pile driven in - May 17th 2019
2. The repair should be done and Pier open to the public on August 31st 2019

 

WATER TREATMENT PLANT

1. Fully online as of April 2019
2. Arsenic and Manganese levels are now at undetectable levels.

 

Help Build Your South Surrey Police

One of the major benefits of having a city police department is that a locally accountable Police Board and the police department determine strategic priorities based solely on the needs of the City and its citizens. It's time to help build the Surrey Police by sharing your perspective. 

There are many ways to get involved. Start by completing our survey to share your perspective on key safety issues in the community and where you want police to focus resources. 

(take the survey)

Visit a local Open House

Crescent Beach	Beecher Street and O'Hara Lane corner	Survey Stations	June 13	10 am - 2 pm
South Surrey Recreation & Arts Centre	14601 20 Avenue	Consultation Session	June 15	12 - 5 pm

 

School children release hundreds of butterflies at Surrey Centre Cemetery

Over 280 students from AJ McLellan Elementary School participated in the seventh annual Butterfly Release Celebration
yesterday, at the Surrey Centre Cemetery.

The annual event is part of the grade one lifecycle curriculum at AJ McLellan, educating students on the cycle of life. For weeks, 11 classrooms raised butterflies from egg, to chrysalis, to adult butterfly and learned about their environmental impact before releasing them at the cemetery.


Butterfly gardens effectively attract and sustain other insects and organisms. Their larvae provide food for birds, lizards and other wildlife.
In return, this wildlife keeps these gardens free from pests.

“The idea behind the event is to teach children about the cycle of life and enhance connections between the community and the
cemetery,” said Yalda Asadian, City of Surrey Manager of Community Enhancement. “This event opens up conversations around life and
death – an important topic we don’t often talk about with our children.”

The Surrey Centre Cemetery is hosting another butterfly release on Father’s Day weekend, this June 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to
honour fathers past and present. This free event is open to the public and guests can enjoy watching the release of over 100
butterflies at the cemetery.

Visit Surrey Cemeteries online for more information.

 

May 27, 2019

May 24, 2019

Surrey Pride - Surrey Shameful

The city of Surrey is still unable or UNWILLING to fly the flag on city flagpoles. They refused an offer to be one of the 50 cities across Canada to raise the flag to honour the 50th Anniversary of the beginning of the decriminalization of Homosexuality. SFU Surrey Campus stepped in to rescue us. 

Despite or in spite of the lack of city government involvement, Surrey Pride is receiving awesome support from other areas within the community – First off the Surrey Pride Society’s 20’ x 30’ flag was at centre field at the Whitecaps v Dallas FC game at the opening ceremonies. 
The Pride AND Trans flags are flying at the Plaza at Central City Mall through July 1.  

It is 2019 – it is time to stand proud, loud and walk tall. This is why we still have local Pride societies and festivals. Until ALL of us is equal – none of us is equal.
So let’s raise our collective voices – come on out and support

Now Just "The White Rock Playhouse"

The sponsorship naming rights of Coast Capital Finance have come to an end. Workers recently removed the Coast Capital logo. 

The financial institution no longer wished to continue with the naming rights.

Enter the city of White Rock with financial support. The playhouse will now simply be referred to as The White Rock Playhouse.

"Pier Pressure"

BROOKE GODIN of Flinnwest Solutions located in the old post office on Marine drive across from Canada's Longest Pier is creating a time lapse video series-of the repair of our storm damaged pier.

Here is this week's update on the progress being made to replace, rebuild CANADA'S LONGEST PIER

White Rock Weekly - Empowerment from FlinnWest Solutions Inc. on Vimeo.

(click here to learn more about Flinnwest Solutions)

At One Time WE Were The Sandcastle Capital of the World

Damon Langlois has been awarded 1st Place for his incredible sand sculpture, “Liberty Crumbling”, at the 2019 Texas SandFest. The 23rd annual Texas SandFest drew 35,000 people to Port Aransas, Texas and is recognized as the largest native-sand sculpture competition in the United States. 

Texas SandFest’s mission is to give back to the community by raising funds for local charities and scholarships for high school students. This year they raised $355,000 usd and have raised $1,261,750 usd for charities in the last 8 years. 

To see all of the winners from this year’s competition click here.

Public Interest Notification - Earon Wayne Giles

Earon Wayne Giles
45 years old
Height 5’11 Weight 183lbs
Brown eyes Brown Hair

Surrey RCMP has issued a public interest warning under the Privacy Act of Canada regarding a dangerous sex offender who poses a high risk to re-offend. Earon Wayne Giles was released from prison on May 24, 2019, in the Lower Mainland and is residing in Surrey.

In 1997 Earon Giles received a twenty-two-year sentence after being convicted of 6 counts of Break and Enter and Sexual Assault committed against women in the City of Surrey.

Earon Giles has been deemed a high risk to re-offend and is currently subject to a number of court ordered conditions, including, in part,

If you see any suspicious behavior including, but not limited to a breach of these conditions, do not approach Mr. GILES, but contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

Whalley-Clayton Skytrain A Winner

TRANSLINK has released the following statistics to illustrate the support for the proposed SKYTRAIN route in Surrey.

For three weeks in April TransLink collected 21,267 survey responses, with nearly 17,000 of them from residents in Surrey and Langley.

In Surrey the approval rate was 85% while across the region support came in at 84% approval rating.

Langley city and Langley Township the rating was in the mid 80's as well.

Do You Care To Have Your Say?

Keep an eye out for us in your neighbourhood! Residents are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming events across Surrey to learn more about the benefits of this change and share your ideas for the future Surrey Police.  

Here are the dates and locations of the first two consultation events happening on the Semiahmoo Peninsula..

Premier John Horgan vowed Thursday to move forward with a plan to twin the tunnel instead of a new bridge.

The BC NDP government on Thursday made a special announcement regarding what will replace the Liberals vision of a crossing of the Fraser in Delta.

Getting Gassed Stateside

Costco Bellingham yesterday. Regular works out to $1.16 per litre Canadian at 1.37 Exchange

May 23, 2019

Notice of Work and Safety - Pier Reconstruction

Safety for the public is the highest priority as crews work to complete the repairs to the White Rock Pier.

For work to proceed safely, we would like to remind residents and visitors to maintain a distance of 330 ft (100m) away from the barge at all times for the duration of the construction period. Your cooperation is much appreciated

Surrey - Clayton SkyTrain public engagement

TransLink receives over 21,000 survey responses

Results from the first stage of public engagement on the proposed Surrey Langley SkyTrain and rapid transit options for 104 Avenue and King George Boulevard show strong support for improved rapid transit in Surrey and Langley.

Between April 4 and 26, TransLink collected 21,267 survey responses, with nearly 17,000 of them from residents in Surrey and Langley.

“This engagement received the second greatest number of responses in the history of TransLink engagements, second only to a topic that affected the entire region,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond. “Ridership is booming, especially south of the Fraser, and the incredible number of responses from this engagement demonstrates how important it is that we continue improving and expanding our transit system.”

Survey results indicate widespread support for the proposed Surrey Langley SkyTrain. In Surrey and Langley, 85% of respondents support the proposed project, and in the rest of the region, support lies at 84%. The following is a breakdown of support:

Surrey – 82%
City of Langley – 90%
Township of Langley – 92%
Rest of Metro Vancouver – 84%

Feedback from the engagement will help to inform ongoing planning work and will form part of TransLink’s project update to the Mayors’ Council in July.

For more information, please visit: www.surreylangleyskytrain.ca

Translink Announces Fare Increases July 1, 2019

Gas is going up, and now TRANSLINK announces increased fares.

Well there is always hitch hiking.

May 22, 2019

About Time

The Province has released terms of reference that will guide the British Columbia Utilities Commission’s (BCUC) investigation into what is driving high, volatile gasoline prices in British Columbia.

“The rapid increase in gas prices in B.C. is alarming, increasingly out of line with the rest of Canada, and people in B.C. deserve answers,” said Premier John Horgan. “We asked the BCUC to conduct a fair, transparent and comprehensive independent investigation. These terms provide the broad reach it needs to find answers and give recommendations to inform the path forward.”

The BCUC may exercise any of the powers provided to it under the Utilities Commission Act, including compelling oil companies as witnesses to explain their prices to the commission.

Third Person Charged

Updated May 26, 2019

A third person has been charged in connection with the murder of Bhaviran Dhesi.

According to updated court records, Inderdeep Kaur Deo, a 24-year-old woman, has been added to the list of accused in the Dhesi file. She now faces a charge of accessory after the fact to murder, alongside Manjit Kaur Deo. Harjot Singh Deo faces a charge of second-degree murder.

Harjot Singh Deo, 21, was arrested May 10 and charged with second-degree murder in the 2017 killing of Dhesi. The pair were dating at the time of her death.

His mother Manjit Kaur Deo, 53, was arrested May 17 and charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

Cpl. Frank Jang with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team confirmed last week that Manjit Kaur Deo is the mother of Harjot Singh Deo. It has not been confirmed how Inderdeep Deo is related to the other two accused.

It Must Be Spring

15640 - 40th Avenue South Surrey

Did you know Mary's Garden opened over the weekend?

We open at 9:30 (until 6 pm) and guess what. Our own no sprays lettuces are ready (we will have enough for the first few days at least!!!); our own heirloom rhubarb and fresh mint are also ready! 

May 17, 2019

We're #1 We're #1

As you drive the streets of most Lower Mainland communities, in particular White Rock & Crescent Beach you cannot help but notice the abundance of FOR SALE signs.

Many homeowners are still hoping to catch the real estate bubble before it bursts. Or has it burst?

May 15, 2019

Unhappy Anniversary

Today marks the third anniversary of the 5 Corners Fire. The blaze displaced over 100 residents of the Ocean Ridge condo development and a number of local business owners.

Let's look back. Here is the time-line story we published the day after the blaze broke out. The White Rock RCMP state the file is still active and progressing.

Follow the bouncing ball;

May 20, 2016

RCMP Investigating Arsons

There has been no official word on the cause of the blaze that destroyed the two condo complexes at 5 Corners Sunday.

What we do know is there were no less than four fires set throughout the city of White Rock and close proximity Sunday morning.

#1. 

A children's playground constructed from wood and plastic and located on the Cypress street road end @ Victoria avenue was set ablaze in the early hours Sunday morning, No injuries. Fire quickly extinguished

#2

Major condominium fire on Royal and Pacific Avenue. Time 4:30 a.m.

#3

Sandpiper Liquor store is broken into @ 5:10 a.m. Owner confirmed the CCTV cameras captures clear pictures of two suspects robbing the liquor out of the window.

#4. 

10:30 a.m. a fire is started in an alleyway off of Pacific avenue near Stayte road. Fire quickly extinguished no major damage. No injuries

#5

12 noon residents of the Semiahmoo First Nations witnessed an individual attempting to start a building on fire behind the band's office. The Surrey RCMP responded to the 911 call and took the suspect into custody. 

The suspect taken into custody Sunday appeared in Surrey Provincial court Tuesday morning where he was charged with arson damaging property.

The accused is 18 year old JAMES DYER of Surrey was released on his own recognizance.

The White Rock & Surrey RCMP continue their very active investigation today.

Nature’s Fare said no major changes expected after sale to Buy-Low Foods

Buy-Low Foods is a division of the Jim Pattison Group

May 14, 2019

Another TRANSLINK Survey - 30 Years Out

TRANSLINK is inviting everyone in the region to help us update their 30-year transportation strategy

Have your say - take the survey here

Gray whales starving, washing up dead in startling numbers along SF coast

Over the past month or so residents and visitors to White Rock have marveled as a pair of Grey whales have cruised back and forth through Semiahmoo Bay. On Friday evening two Grey whales, and possibly the same two that have been in White Rock, got stranded off of Centennial Beach in Delta. Fortunately the tide was coming in when the two giants beached on the sand./ 

The two Grey whales were freed and seem content to stay in the bay.

The Grey whales are currently migrating from their winter home in Mexico and heading back to Alaska. 

Why are the Grey whales coming in so close and in such numbers these days? They are searching for food.

(read the full story of what has happened in San Fransisco)

Outdoor Burning Ban Issued

As we move closer to the summer season, the Surrey Fire Service wants to remind its citizens that seasonally high temperatures and dry weather do result in an increase in the potential for brush fires & nuisance smoke throughout the City of Surrey. 

Effective immediately, open burning of any kind is banned in the city. Open burning/backyard fires are not allowed in the City of Surrey. The fire ban also extends to the beaches In South Surrey in Crescent Beach and off of Semiahmoo Park in South Surrey.

Any fire service attendance to an open burning complaint may be subject to cost recovery.

Natural gas, propane or charcoal briquettes are permitted as long as they are being used in ULC/CSA-approved devices for that particular product. Charcoal briquettes are allowed on private property but are prohibited in city parks and on city beaches.

To date in 2019, Surrey Fire has attended 123 brush / grass fires and 184 burning complaints.

Between May 1, 2018 and Oct 01, 2018, the Surrey Fire Service responded to 441 brush/grass fires and 279 burning complaints.

May 09, 2019

Independent News / STOP The Fake News

In a video by award-winning filmmakers Velcrow Ripper and Nova Ami, National Observer founding editor-in-chief Linda Solomon Wood speaks about the vital role of journalists to preserve truth and accountability in Canada. With 'fake news' and disinformation campaigns destabilizing politics in the U.S. and the U.K., Canada is now also being targeted by malicious efforts to polarize voters ahead of the 2019 election. National Observer's reporters speak about what public service journalism mean to them. Featuring Linda Solomon Wood, Mike De Souza, Carl Meyer, Sandy Garossino, Alastair Sharp, Fatima Syed, Emilee Gilpin and Jenny Uechi.

May 12, 2019son is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca, quoting file number 2019-67700

May 10, 2019

Freed Willy

Late yesterday afternoon (Friday) two Grey whales were trapped on the sand in Boundary Bay near Centennial Beach in Tswassen. Rescue crews from the Department of Fisheries were quick to act. The two whales eventually made their way back to deeper water. It is believed these are the two same whales that have been thrilling residents and visitors to White Rock.

The two whales have been frolicking and feeding off the end of our pier for two weeks.

Coyote Ugly

Monday evening a 3 year old girl who was walking with a parent was attacked by a coyote while they walked through Duprez Ravine in west White Rock. The city of White Rock responded by closing the ravine and placing a makeshift barricade with no information at the top of the ravine. The entrance above to Duprez Ravine is located behind Centennial Arena.

A conversation officer was called after the attack and arrived on the scene and shot a coyote. Until further notice if you are hiking or biking in the ravine be extra careful.

The young girl was treated for superficial leg wounds and released from hospital.

May 08, 2019

Surrey Says "Love Where You Live"

Love Where You Live kicked off with a staff clean-up event at City Hall. (L-R) Councillor Jack Hundial, Councillor Linda Annis,
Mayor Doug McCallum, Councillor Allison Patton, Councillor Laurie Guerra, Councillor Brenda Locke and Councillor Steven Pettigrew.

Mayor Doug McCallum launched the City of Surrey’s Love Where You Live campaign which calls for residents, business owners, schools, and community groups to do their part in keeping Surrey clean and beautiful. 

“Everyday, and especially during this new initiative, we are calling on everyone to participate in keeping the street where you live, and the parks where our children play, clean and welcoming,” said Mayor Doug McCallum.
“No effort is too small, and it starts with the street you work or call home. I challenge everyone to take 20 minutes out of your day, once a week, to clean up your property and the space around it.”

For the full Love Where You Live event schedule, or to learn more about the city-wide campaign, visit surrey.ca/lovewhereyoulive.

2019 State of the City Address 

Highlights of Mayor McCallum's 20129 State of the City Address.

“I am proud of what has been achieved in the six months since we took office,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “When I was elected as Mayor, I had two priorities in mind. The first was to quickly deliver on the wishes of the people of Surrey who gave us the mandate to govern, and the second was to make sure the City of Surrey is continually moving forward by having Council, on behalf of the people, do what is best for our city. The work we have done is just the beginning and we will continue to seize on the momentum we have created to ensure that Surrey is constantly advancing and flourishing.”

Two major initiatives were enacted on the evening the new Council was sworn in. Motions were introduced and unanimously passed to begin work on extending the existing SkyTrain network in Surrey from King George Station to Langley City and to begin work on the creation of a Surrey Police Department. Mayor McCallum also highlighted the following items that were part of his “to do list” that have been acted upon since taking office:

• Implement Smart Development to ensure essential services and infrastructure are part of the planning of new communities.
• No development in the Agricultural Land Reserve.
• Eliminate backlog in building permits.
• Hold property tax increase to the Consumer Price Index (Oct. 2018) of 2.9%.
• Bring the City of Surrey’s debt load under control by taking a pay as you go approach.
• Eliminate pay parking around Surrey Memorial Hospital and at City Hall.
• Institute Inadmissible Patrons Program and Surrey Anti-Gang Family Empowerment Program
• Bring transparency, accountability and fairness with the establishment of an Independent Ethics Commissioner at City Hall.
• Create Truck Parking and Community Engagement Task Forces
• Purchase and protect park land in Campbell Heights.
• Begin planning of a new Track and Field facility at Bear Creek Park and a Kabaddi facility.
• Increase discount for seniors 70 years and older from 25% to 75% on recreation passes and drop-in admissions.

The 2019 State of the City Address also saw the unveiling of a marked Surrey Police vehicle for the first time. With the Surrey Police Transition Report near completion, Mayor McCallum outlined the public engagement outreach that will be occurring once the report is handed over to the provincial government. Residents will have the opportunity to outline their priorities and what they want to see with Surrey Police in the coming weeks

May 07, 2019

White Rock Runner/Resident Ferg Hawke Finishes BMO Marathon In Good Company

May 03, 2019

Iconic White Rock pier repairs to receives provincial support

(l-r) BOB BEZUBIAK "Friends of the Pier", Delta MLA RAVI KAHLON, White Rock councillor HELEN FATHERS, South Surrey/White Rock MLA TRACEY REDIES

Weekend Roundup May 4-6, 2019

Saturday

It was a great turn out Saturday morning for the monthly talk with White Rock council members.

Sunday

The annual Hike for Hospice brought in thousands of dollars through pledges to walks in our community.

. Dozens enjoyed the glorious walk around Crescent Beach in ideal weather.

Market Opens

MP Gordie Hogg and MLA Tracey Redies were on hand to officiate at the opening of the White Rock Farmers' Market as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.

Market manager HELEN FATHERS pictured with market staff and award presented by MP Gordon Hogg honouring the market as the top market in British Columbia. Every Sunday in uptown White Rock. Follow the crowds.

May 02, 2019

Backed Up Border 

12:00 p.m.

Harley Chappell photo

Surrey RCMP is investigating a two vehicle collision which occurred on Highway 99 near the Peace Arch border crossing.

At approximately 11:30 am on May 2nd, Surrey RCMP Frontline officers responded to a report of a collision on Highway 99, approximately 300 meters north of the Canada / US border. Once on scene, officers determined a collision had occurred between a Porsche Cayenne SUV and a Toyota Sienna van. It was initially reported to be a three vehicle collision, but officers later confirmed that only two vehicles were involved. The Toyota subsequently caught fire after the collision. The male driver and lone occupant of the Porsche has been transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The male driver and sole occupant of the Toyota was pronounced deceased at scene.

The Surrey RCMP Criminal Collision Investigation Team has assumed conduct of the investigation along with the assistance of the General Investigation Unit and the Lower Mainland Integrated Collision Analyst Reconstruction Service.

Anyone with information about this collision or may have dash-cam video is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or contact Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.

Friends Indeed

This morning (Thursday) dignitaries and elected officials gathered on the newly opened Memorial Park to announce the creation and efforts of a volounteer community committee called FRIENDS OF THE PIER.

The group will be raising money to assist the city of White Rock in restoring our world famous pier to it's original condition, and perhaps better.

One of the fundraising initiatives will be a "Buy A Plank" campaign. For $1,000.00 you will be able to purchase 1 of 1300 planks that it will take to rebuild the pier. Your name and or company log will be burned into the plank (see above)

Landmark Properties announced at today's press conference they will start the campaign by purchasing 50 planks.

(click here for more details)

Peace Portal Take Down

Seizure of cash and drugs highlights importance of tips from the public

A tip from the public has led to the arrest of two men and a substantial seizure of cash and drugs.

Shortly before 8:00pm on April 29, 2019, Surrey RCMP Frontline officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked in the 700 block of 171 Street. Officers attended and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle, which then initiated an impaired driving investigation, and led to the arrest of both the driver and passenger and the seizure of the vehicle.

During the investigation, officers located and seized multiple items including approximately $27,440 in cash, a replica firearm, a conductive energy weapon, multiple cell phones, and packaged bags of suspected heroin/fentanyl. Both the driver and passenger have been released from police custody on a court process and the investigation is on-going. 

“Once again the watchful eyes of community members have assisted us in an investigation,” says Surrey RCMP Operations Officer, Superintendent Ed Boettcher. “Police alone cannot combat violent crime in Surrey, we encourage the public to continue to report any suspicious activity in our community.”

In addition to following up on tips, Surrey RCMP is continuing its strategic enforcement activity with enhanced patrols by members of the Surrey RCMP’s Traffic Unit, Frontline officers, and the Surrey Gang Enforcement Team. A variety of work is being done to increase police contact with individuals known to be involved in violent criminal behaviour and drug trafficking in the city. This work has included an increase in the number of traffic check stops throughout Surrey.

A recent series of check stops conducted on the night of Saturday, April, 27, 2019, resulted in approximately 1,100 vehicle checks, and a number of violations and charges under the Motor Vehicle Act.

In total:
1 - criminal impaired driving investigation
5 - 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibitions (IRP) and the accompanying 30 day impound
1 - criminal charge for Possession of controlled substance
1 - charge for Drive while prohibited
4 - 3-day IRP with accompanying 3 day impound
2 - suspension by drugs
5 – cell phone violations
2 - violation tickets for No valid drivers licence
6 - violation tickets for Drive contrary to restriction
1 – violation ticket for seatbelts
1 – violation for use cannabis while operating vehicle

New area code 672 

Starting this week (May 4), the new 672 area code will be added to the current 604, 250, 778 and 236 area codes already in use in British Columbia. The introduction of the new area code is in response to the increasing demand for phone numbers in the region, ensuring residents and businesses continue to have enough numbers to meet demand well into the future.

May 01, 2019

 Water Restrictions 

On May 1, White Rock will have Stage 1 watering restrictions in place. In order to support and promote sustainable water practices throughout the hotter months of the year, outdoor watering restrictions will be in effect from May 1 to October 15. Click here to learn more about water restrictions.

April 30, 2019

White Rock RCMP Discover Body

White Rock RCMP are on the scene of the area in the 1500 Block Vidal street. A body was discovered this morning in the small public park located just south of the Beverly Condos.

No further information is available.

The Beverly 1500 block of Vidal street

 

Council's Coles Notes

Last night White Rock council approved in principle, a funds raising idea the "Save The Pier" group has proposed. Details will be announced this Thursday @ 11 a.m. at a press conference on the waterfront in Memorial Park. See you there.

Council also rebuffed staff's request to cut back the vegetation on "the hump" along Marine Drive between the two beaches in White Rock.

Council firmly stated they like the way the hump has grown back after the devastating clear cut which occurred a few years back under the description "vegetation control."

Council did give permission to cut the vegetation in the area at the top of the hump where stability shoring up work will happen this Spring to prevent any further slippage of "the hump."

Never Again..."the hump" after vegetation control!

 

April 30, 2019

Better Than Expected

 

The City of White Rock’s Water Treatment Plant is operational and will be fully commissioned by the beginning of May. The operational test period is now completed.

For more information on the Water Treatment Plant, and to view the latest water quality test results, please visit whiterockcity.ca/mywater

Thank you for your patience. If you are encountering any water disclouartion or smell problems contact city hall immediately 604-541-2100

 

Notice of Parking Stall Painting at the Waterfront

 

Starting on Monday, April 29, the pay parking stall lines and numbers are being re-painted at the waterfront. The contractor will begin the work at 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and will continue until Thursday, May 2, 2019. 

For locations of stall painting, and to read the full notice of work, please click here: http://ow.ly/UKb630ozPSf

 

April 26, 2019

Whale Of A Time In Semiahmoo Bay

Many photos of a gray whale swimming in Semiahmoo Bay turned up recently on FACEBOOK. 

Here is one from White Rock Sea Tours & Whale Watching. Take whale watching trip this summer.

 

 

 

April 28, 2019

Get On The Bus - Take A Ride With Us

Translink CEO Kevin Desmond

The latest data from TransLink shows transit ridership reached an all-time high in 2018. The 2018 Transit Service Performance Review (TSPR) measures ridership, cost, reliability, on-time performance and crowding across all transit modes. The findings inform upcoming service changes and identify opportunities to improve service. 

Key findings include: 

• Boardings: + 7.1 per cent system-wide (our biggest ever annual increase) 

• Bus: + 8 per cent 

• SeaBus: + 6 per cent 

• SkyTrain: + 5.7 per cent 

• West Coast Express: +7 per cent 

• HandyDART: + 5.8 per cent 

  The TSPR helps us measure where more service is urgently needed to keep the system reliable and efficient. We’ve identified 52 routes with overcrowding and are adding service hours to 32 of them before July. Some of the actions TransLink is taking, thanks to our funded Investment Plans, include: 

• Adding 620,000 bus service hours to improve frequency and increase capacity over the next three years 

• Begin rolling out over 350 additions to the bus fleet, including four electric buses, 32 double-deckers and 56 HandyDART vehicles 

• Adding 56 cars to Expo/Millennium and 24 cars to Canada Line to increase capacity 

  With the continuous rise in gas prices, expect the ridership to steadily increase.

 

April 24, 2019

Six Year Battle Ends......for now

Paula Williams

It is with great disappointment that I must pass along the news that the Court has declared our appeal moot, based on the fact that the Port canceled the coal permit. This means that we will not get a decision on the appeal as the Court has decided not to exercise its discretion to hear the appeal. Our lawyers submitted arguments against this, but the Court has sided with the Port. However, despite this unfortunate news, it is important to remember the coal permit remains canceled and hopefully, a coal terminal will NEVER be built at Fraser Surrey Docks (FSD).

With this said, I'd like to thank each and every one of you for playing a role in helping to delay this project, which I believe brought us to where we are today. Thank you for all of the emails you sent to the Port, to politicians, and to the media. Thank you for canvasing multiple communities asking people to sign our petition, way back when. Thank you for raising money for our legal challenge (door-to-door, yard sales, and simply out of your own pockets). Thank you for coming to our many town halls, and for making this an important issue that forced the media and politicians to take notice! And thank you for simply believing in the vision I had for Communities and Coal.

Also, the story of the Fraser Surrey Docks coal terminal demise is a story about collective commitment and integrity, and in this day and age, I think that counts for a lot! In addition to you and the many other community members who stepped up, there were also many other groups who worked so hard on this issue, including (but not limited to) Ecojustice, Voters Taking Action on Climate Change and Dogwood, as well as the cities of Surrey and New Westminster. Having these entities come together in opposition of the project, working harmoniously together, yet independently made this movement stronger than it would have been if it was just one voice. I think the impression it gave both FSD and the Port was impactful!

In closing, thank you for the last 6 years. It has been an incredible journey which I will always treasure.

Warmest regards,

Paula

 

April 23, 2019

 

The Royal Canadian Mint unveiled a new commemorative loonie on Tuesday meant to mark what it calls a key milestone for lesbian, gay, trans-gender, queer and two-spirited people in the country. The new coin, which features the work of Vancouver artist Joe Average, was launched at the 519 Community Centre in Toronto.(Royal Canadian Mint)

The Royal Canadian Mint unveiled a new commemorative loonie on Tuesday meant to mark what it calls a key milestone for lesbian, gay, transgender, queer and two-spirited people in the country.

The agency says the new one-dollar coin pays tribute to Parliament's passing of legislation that "initiated the decriminalization of homosexuality in Canada."

It says the coin, which was launched in Toronto, celebrates "50 years of progress for LGBTQ2 Canadians."

 

17 year old youth arrested and charged with possession of a loaded firearm

Surrey RCMP is advising the public of an arrest of a youth which took place in the Whalley Athletic park over the weekend.

On April 21, 2019, shortly before 7:00 pm, Surrey RCMP received a call for service from staff at a local shelter in the 10600 block of 135A Street, reporting a verbal dispute and suspicious activity outside of the shelter. Police were advised that one of the individuals involved in the dispute may be in possession of a firearm. Frontline Officers quickly responded to the area and located the suspect in Whalley Athletic Park.

After a brief foot pursuit, a 17-year-old male was arrested and found in possession of a loaded 9mm hand gun. The youth was held for court and is facing a number of charges including: possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose; carrying a concealed weapon; unauthorized possession of a firearm; possession of a prohibited firearm with ammunition; and resisting / obstructing a peace officer.

“This investigation is an example of how important it is for the public to report suspicious activity to police.” said Superintendent Ed Boetcher, Operations Officer “This was also great work by our Frontline Officers who made this arrest of an armed suspect, without any injuries to the public or the youth involved.”

Anyone who would like to report suspicious activity in Surrey is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or contact Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca 

August 17, 2019

Open For Business

Christy Fox photos

It has been a long time coming but MEMORIAL Park on the waterfront is now open. Just in time for the Easter Weekend crowds. The washrooms will be open by month's end

It didn't take long for four visitors to Memorial Park to engage in the tried and true dangerous action of standing on the train tracks for photographs. IN hindsight perhaps we should have built a spur rail line next to the tracks that no trains use for photo opportunities.

 

April 16, 2019

It's A Banner Year in Surrey

The 6 town centres throughout Surrey will soon be decorated with colourful street banners. One would have to imagine they will be useful for people who do not know where they are?

 

Surrey RCMP investigating Port Kells collision between vehicle and train

Surrey RCMP is advising the public of a collision which occurred between a vehicle and a train at a marked train crossing at 179 Street near the Golden Ears Connector in the Port Kells area. 

The collision was reported to police at approximately 10:00 am, on April 15, 2019. The early indications are that the vehicle was attempting to cross the tracks when it was struck by a freight train. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were transported to the hospital with serious injuries.

The Surrey RCMP Criminal Collision Investigation Team is on scene and will be taking conduct of this investigation.

Drivers are asked to avoid the area of this collision for the next few hours as police investigate and work to clear the scene of the collision. 

Anyone with information about this incident or who may have dash-cam video is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or contact Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca

 

April 15, 2019

Not A Record To Be Proud Of

The White Rock Petro Canada service station located @ Thrift Avenue and Johnston Road was featured on the news all weekend long, for the wrong reason.

The local gas station started Friday by setting a record for the highest priced gas in North America with gas priced @ 169.9 a litre. By Sunday the station had jacked it's price another penny to crack the 170. a litre price range.

EDIT 8 OR'S NOTE:

A quick thinking service station operator in Blaine yesterday put up a readograph sign that said - Gas $105.0 a litre (Canadian).

See you in line.

 

April 14, 2018

SAVE ON's "DARRELL" joins Executive Director DAVID YOUNG on stage

Hazelmere golf and country club Saturday evening hosted the 24th annual SOURCES GALA fund-raiser. This year's themes was "Enchanted"

MLA Tracey Redies and MP Gordie Hogg announce the best costume winners for the evening.

White Rock councillor Helen Fathers receives a fairy wish from the beautiful "Telulla"

 

April 13, 2019

2018 Surrey civic election investigation completed - Charges Considered

The investigation into concerns of possible wrong-doing in Surrey’s mail ballot registration process for the 2018 civic election has been completed (see previous news release).

Following a thorough investigation by the Surrey RCMP’s Major Crime Section, a report to Crown counsel has now been forwarded to the BC Prosecution Service for charge assessment.
This investigation was initiated in September 2018, after irregularities were noted in the mail ballot registration process for the 2018 civic election by Surrey’s Chief Elections Officer. Sixty-seven applications were determined to be fraudulent in that they were not completed or signed by the voter listed on the application. Two of these applications requested ballots be sent to addresses that were not associated to the named applicant; the other 65 applications listed the applicant’s correct address for delivery of the voting ballot. 
No ballots were sent out to any individual or residences based on the fraudulent applications. The process to apply for a mail ballot was amended by the Chief Elections Officer on October 1st to preserve the integrity of the election. 

As the investigation progressed, an additional complaint came forward alleging that an Elections employee at a polling station attempted to influence a voter. Officials overseeing the civic election quickly removed the employee from their appointed position in order to ensure there was a fair and transparent election process. 
Officials from Surrey’s Elections Office were routinely updated during this investigation and they acted to ensure that the integrity of the 2018 election was maintained. The results of the investigation were shared with the Chief Elections Officer to ensure strategies are put in place to protect further elections.
“Allegations such as these are rare, but important to investigate to ensure the integrity of our democratic process,” says Assistant Commissioner Dwayne McDonald. “We thank the public for their patience while we completed this investigation.”

 

 

 

April 12, 2019

Semiahmoo First Nations Evictions

Semiahmoo First Nations leader HARLEY CHAPPELL

The Semiahmoo First Nations this week issued notices to all the non band members living on the Semiahmoo First Nations land reserve.

Chief HARLEY CHAPPELL has informed the renters they will be required to pay $50,000.00 to hook up to the new sewer and water system once the major project is completed. According to CHAPPELL the $10 million dollar federal grant specifically stated the money was to be used solely for the benefit of current band members.

CHAPPELL informed the non band renters, some who have been renting land on the reserve for decades, they would be required to pay the $50,000.00 levy prior to June 15 or vacate their premises. There are currently 36 non band residents that will be affected.

 

Semiahmoo Slide Closes Rail Line

AMTRAK service between Seattle and Vancouver will be suspended until the weekend. An early morning slide on Wednesday closed the tracks to all rail traffic. Freight trains were allowed to travel the route once the debris was removed from the track surface.

By law passenger service cannot run through an area for 48 hours following a slide.

GUS MELONAS of BNSF's office in Seattle stated he was surprised about the the slide as normally =slides on the corridor between White Rock & Crescent Beach normally happen after a heavy rainfall.

 

 

April 11, 2019

Gang War Rages On

Surrey: The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is requesting public assistance to advance its investigation into the homicide of a Surrey man. 

On April 9, 2019 at approximately 11:47 p.m., the Surrey RCMP received reports of shots fired at a town home complex in the 13900-block of 72 Avenue. Emergency responders arrived on scene to find 30-year-old Amrendra Vijay Kumar with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at scene. IHIT was called in to take conduct of the investigation. 

IHIT is working closely with its partners from the Surrey RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS) and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence. 

Immediately following the shooting, a vehicle left the scene at a high rate of speed. Approximately 40-minutes later at 12:27 a.m., the Surrey RCMP received a call of a car fire in the area of 164 Street and 92 Avenue. This vehicle is believed to be related to the earlier shooting and will be seized for further examination. 

Investigators are asking the public for dash cam video for the following areas and time frame:

-140 Street between 72 Avenue and 88 Avenue from 11:45 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

-72 Avenue between King George Boulevard and 152 Street from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. 

“We do not believe Mr. Kumar’s shooting was a random act and our detectives are working hard to determine motive,” says Corporal Frank Jang of IHIT. “We need those who knew Mr. Kumar to come forward and help us piece together the circumstances leading up to his death.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

 

 

The TRANSLINK TRAVELLING ROADSHOW dropped into the White Rock Community Centre yesterday afternoon. A full complement of staff from TRANSLINK was on hand to answer questions by the members of the public that actually took the time to attend. The general feeling in the room was the proposed new system of starting and ending all 351 buses @ White Rock centre (North BLuff & Johnston) would be a major adjustment for any commuters west of White Rock centre all the way to Crescent Beach.

(Click here to have your say)

White Rock Centre – South Surrey – Bridgeport (351/352/New 350)

White Rock Centre - South Surrey - Bridgeport (351/352/350) Map PDF 

Reducing overcrowding.

Proposed Change

• Split route 351 into two routes at White Rock Centre
• New 351 will provide service between Bridgeport and White Rock Centre
• New 350 will provide service between Crescent Beach and White Rock Centre, served by community shuttles
• Introduce double decker buses on route 351
• Redesign route 352 to continue along 16th Avenue to White Rock Centre

Why are we proposing the changes?

• Routes 351, 352 and 354 experience overcrowding between South Surrey Park & Ride and Bridgeport
• Double decker buses will be introduced on route 351 to reduce overcrowding 

Benefits

• Reduces peak overcrowding between South Surrey Park & Ride and Bridgeport
• Eliminates use of standard buses in Crescent Beach
• Allows for more efficient use of resources to reduce overcrowding 

Tradeoffs

• Requires a transfer for Crescent Beach customers travelling to Bridgeport 
• Requires a transfer for North Bluff and Ocean Park customers travelling to Bridgeport outside of peak times
• Eleven bus stops on route 352 along 144th St and 148th St will no longer be served and customers will have to walk to bus stops on 152nd St or 16th Ave
  • View PDF Map

Additional Information

• On average, 7 passengers per day travel from Crescent Beach to Bridgeport
• On average, 8 passengers per day board at the 11 bus stops proposed to be discontinued on 144th and 148th St
• Route 351 received the second highest number of requests in 2018 to increase frequency to reduce overcrowding
• Route 350 Proposed Frequency:
  • Peak: 20 min
  • Off-peak: 30-60 min

(click here for more information and local dates to attend).

 

 

Large Item Pickup Program 

Request Large Item Pickup

Call: 604-590-7289 (Option 3)
 

Dispose of your large items through the Large Item Pick-Up Program. All single-family households that receive curbside collection may have up to 4 large items picked up by appointment at any time throughout the calendar year.

(click here for more info)

 

Schedule a Large Item Pick-up for Single Family Households

1. Call the City of Surrey Waste Collection Hotline at 604-590-7289 (Option 3) to arrange your pick-up date.
2. On the day of your appointment (or the evening before), place the large items at the curb. Please ensure all items are at your curb by 7:30 am.

 

 

April 10, 2019

Pier Update

White Rock council endorsed the staff recommendation to award a contract to repair our world famous pier which was heavily damaged in December.

Work is expected to begin within 2 weeks with a completion date of August/September 2019.

The remaining parts of the pier will be replaced over the next two years in the offseason.

 

" At this time we are expecting 3.1 million to be paid for by insurance.  

The actual amount of insurance proceeds will not be finalized until the adjusters review the scope of work done and ll the invoices are submitted.  The city is expecting to be reimbursed through insurance by putting the pier back to today’s standards and possibly the rest of the pier, we don’t have that answered yet? "

SANDRA KURYLO - Director of Financial Services City of White Rock

 

Too Obvious

For years South Surrey commuters have chuckled when they noticed the sign of the bed and breakfast just across the ditch in Washington State. 

ROBERT JOSEPH BRULE who has owned and operated the Smuggler's Inn for 20 years has now been charged with 21 counts under the immigration act. It is alleged he recently aided 7 people to enter Canada illegally.

BRULE is in custody in Surrey pending a bail hearing.

 

City of Vancouver and City of Surrey are in it to Win it!

The City of Vancouver and City of Surrey submitted their final Smart Cities Challenge proposal on March 5, 2019. If selected by Infrastructure Canada to bring this big idea into reality, the cities will share $50 million in prize money that would enable both cities to demonstrate a path to safer, healthier and more connected communities while reducing emissions, improving transportation efficiency, and enhancing livability in the face of rapid growth and traffic congestion

Vancouver and Surrey’s #SmarterTogether program is a bold vision to create Canada’s first two collision free multi-modal corridors.

The unique smart mobility corridors of two distinct cities— one urban and one suburban — ensured the proposal was replicable by design. This was important to ensure we can duplicate these successes in the future.

For information on the City of Vancouver’s and City of Surrey’s joint Smart City Challenge, or to see our finalist submission, visit www.smartertogether.ca

 

 April 05, 2019

Have you heard about the Japanese beetle? 

I received a rather interesting package in the mail today for my Green Team commercial gardening business marked URGENT.

Don Pitcairn

It turns out downtown Vancouver is infested with them and moving soil out of the city core without a permit will now get you fined $500 - $10,000. 
Movement restrictions on soil and plants with soil is year round. From June 15 - Oct 15 during flight period of adults, movement of all plant parts is restricted including grass clipping and leaves. 
A temporary transfer station will open June 15 at W 1st Ave at Wylie St. to process green waste.

The package from the BC Landscape & Nursery Association included:
1. Japanese Beetle Fact Sheet
2. CFIA Guidance for the movement of plants, plant parts and soil leaving regulated area in Vancouver.
3. Regulated Area of Restricted Movement Map.
4. 'Notice to Treat' for landowners and property managers.
5. Japanese Beetle Treatment areas, City of Vancouver.
6. Japanese Beetle ID card.

Websites with more info
bclna.com
http://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/japanese-beetle.aspx
https:/bclna.com/japanesebeetle/

 

April 02, 2019

Streets On Fire

Surrey RCMP investigating a shooting and serious collision in Guildford

The Surrey RCMP is investigating a shooting and what is believed to be a related collision which occurred in the Guildford area.

At approximately 9:00 pm on Monday, April 1, Surrey RCMP received a report of shots fired in the 15300 block of 102A Street. Witnesses reported seeing a blue sedan fleeing the area. A short time later, Surrey RCMP received numerous 911 calls reporting a serious multi-vehicle collision involving a blue sedan near 156 Street and 100 Avenue.

Surrey RCMP Frontline and Gang Enforcement officers, along with the Integrated Police Dog Service, quickly attended and secured both scenes.

Officers located one man with apparent gun shot injuries, and a second man with serious injures which are believed to be a result of the collision. Both of these males were transported to hospital in serious condition.

Three other males were located at or near the collision scene and taken into custody. All five of these individuals are currently detained by police for investigative purposes. Firearms were located and seized at the scene of the collision.

The investigation is still in its early stages, but initial indications are that this is a targeted incident related to the ongoing Lower Mainland gang conflict.

Although there was a risk to public safety as these events unfolded, there are no indications of a continued risk to the public as a result of this incident.

Anyone with further information who has not already spoken with police or may have dash-cam video, is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or if they wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.

 

Punked!

Local part time historian, ukulele player of note and roving cameraman at Blue Frog studios, TOM SAUNDERS thought he would have a little fun with the community yesterday.

With it being APRIL FOOLS he created the image above and posted it up on FACEBOOK.

The funny and scary part is some people thought it was real.

Nancy Powell Knight Not Fricking likely!!! April Fools!!

Karen Montgomery Good grief this doesn’t get closer to the pier repair does it

Howard Roo I like it, it works. Brings some character to the uptown area.

Hillary Rolin What a freak our mayor is and city council freaks

Chris Hebert Wtf

Brenda Graham Apter Please tell me this is an April Fools joke...

Brenda Graham Apter Nancy Powell Knight , well I had a moment there when I wondered. I don’t get back to WR often, but when I do I’m usually horrified by some development project.

Portland officials attempt to block 5G network installation over health risks - what will White Rock & Surrey do?

Recently the Peace Arch News featured a story on a gentleman by the name of CARL KATZ who along with many others suffers from EMF electro magnetic frequency pollution emanating from cell towers.

The forthcoming installation of 5G systems take that conversation to a whole new level. Start your letter writing campaign NOW!

(click here for the full story)

 

March 27, 2019

UPDATE 2 p.m. March 27

HIT identifies victims in Surrey vehicle collision as mother and sons

Surrey: On March 26, 2019 at approximately 10:30 a.m., the Surrey RCMP received reports of a single vehicle collision on the 32 Avenue diversion under the Highway 99 overpass. Emergency responders arrived on scene and found three people inside the vehicle. The deaths were suspicious and IHIT was called in to take conduct of the investigation. 

A residence in the 14900-block of 35 Avenue, near the scene of the collision is believed to be related to the investigation and detectives will be on site collecting evidence. IHIT as well as Surrey RCMP serious crime investigators will be in the area of the residence for the next few days canvassing door-to-door for witnesses.

“IHIT has now identified the three deceased people – a mother and her two sons. Their names are not being released as it will not further the investigation at this time,” says Corporal Frank Jang of IHIT. “Our deepest condolences go out to the family members and friends affected by this event.”

IHIT will continue to work with the B.C. Coroners Service on this investigation. 

There are no further details to provide and there will be no media availability.

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

 

White Rock Cancer Survivor Celebrates Living

White Rock's SERENA BONNEVILLE

From March 9–16, eleven youths in cancer remission aged 19 to 29 had a unique winter expedition experience in the Chic-Chocs, thanks to support from the Air Canada Foundation. Organized by the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation, this journey on a mountain range in the central region of the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, brought together young people from Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, selected by the medical staff of various oncology centres across Canada. Serena Bonneville, a 22-year-old marketing and communications consultant from White Rock, was part of this group. 

The Foundation, specialized in therapeutic adventure, organizes, since 1996, expeditions intended for young Canadians undergoing cancer treatment or in cancer remission. “These expeditions offer participants the opportunity to change the environment and interact with other young people with cancer who, like them, go through the same ordeal. These youths return home changed, ready for a fresh start, and strengthened by a source of motivation that will accompany them throughout their lives”, says Jean-Charles Fortin, Director of the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation. 

Accompanied by On the Tip of the Toes Foundation facilitators, a medical team and local guides, participants had the chance to experience the beauty of this exceptional Quebec region. After spending a few days at their base camp to get familiar with the terrain and equipment, the participants took a narrow coniferous path to begin the Mont Vallières-de- St-Réal ascent. 

For Serena, the expedition was a life changing escape from an often confronting reality – an experience that will live in her indefinitely. “Knowing what it feels like to be dying has taught me what it means to be alive. And oddly enough, I’m so thankful.” 

(click here for more info on Tip of the Toes Foundation)

 

March 26, 2019

Update - Notice of Water Testing

The City of White Rock’s Water Treatment Plant is ready to be fully operational. The Water Department will continue operational testing until Tuesday, April 2, 2019. 

During this operational test period, a potential increase in turbidity might occur in the water supply due to some of the Manganese deposited on the pipes from previous years of operation. 

We advise the public to flush their taps until the water becomes clear.

 

March 22, 2019

FIVE YEARS LATER

Lisa Batstone found guilty of second degree murder in daughter's death

A packed courtroom in New Westminster where Lisa Batsone has been found guilty of killing her daughter five years ago. The Surrey mom smothered her 8-year-old daughter Teagan in Surrey in December 2014.

Do date has been set for sentencing.

 

Slow News Day?

Well we are Front Page news again, for all the wrong reasons. 

(See YELL IT LIKE IT IS below)

(read THE PROVINCE story here)

Can you help identify this suspect in a sexual assault investigation? 

Surrey RCMP is releasing two composite sketches of a suspect in a sexual assault which occurred in the Newton area.
On March 13, 2019, at approximately 9:30pm, a woman was grabbed from behind and groped by an unknown man as she was walking northbound on 124th Street near 72nd Avenue. The woman was able to get away from the man, however, he followed her to her front door and attempted to assault her again. The female managed to get inside her residence without him doing so. The man was last seen heading southbound on 124th Street.

The male suspect is described as 5'10'' tall, with a skinny build and a short black beard. His ethnicity is unknown. He was wearing a black baseball hat and a long black jacket with a creamed coloured shirt underneath. The public is requested to look at the composite sketches and call police if they can help to identify this person.

The Surrey RCMP Special Victims Unit has taken conduct of this investigation and investigators are making an appeal for any witnesses to come forward with information. They are also requesting anyone who may have been driving in the area, or who may have dash cam video from the area at the time of the offence, to come forward.

“Incidents like this are not only upsetting for the victim, but also for the community,” says Cpl. Elenore Sturko. “We are encouraging anyone with information that can help us in this investigation to come forward.”

Surrey RCMP is providing tips to the community regarding personal safety precautions: 

· Don’t take short cuts. Use main routes, avoid lanes, forested or secluded areas.
· Walk with friends.
· Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.
· Phone home when leaving a friend’s house and say when you will be home.
· Don’t assist strangers.
· Trust your instincts and your feelings.
· Phone if you are going to be delayed, or if your plans change.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or contact Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca

 

 

March 21, 2019

Doggone Good Day

White Rock by-law officers have stepped up their patrols along the waterfront promenade. A few residents have been confused regarding when the on leash trial period for dogs comes into effect on the city's waterfront walkway.

The by law officers yesterday stated they have seen some dogs on the promenade but the number is very small and when approached by the by law officers and have the by law explained, the visitors to the walkway with their dogs are very polite and simply leave the area immediately.

EDITOR'S NOTE

The trial period for dogs on the White Rock promenade commences on October 01, 2019 and will continue for 6 months until April 01, 2020

(No it's not an Aprils Fool joke)

 

March 19, 2019

Don't Sell Your Cell(phone)

Telecommunication companies are hoping to restore cell coverage on the White Rock waterfront in the near future. In December when the White Rock pier was damaged the cable for the cell tower at the end of the pier was destroyed.

Crews have been busy working installing new cell towers on the roof of the old post office at the corner of Martin Street & White Rock.

 

March 14, 2019

Wednesday evening White Rock council completed the regular Monday evening council meeting which was not complete due to a Public Hearing to deal with height and density along Johnston Road south of Thrift avenue.

First on last night's agenda pertaining to this matter was the rezoning of the entire 1300 block on Johnston Road. The new height which will be allowed for that district of the city will be 4-6 storeys.

The aspect of the new zoning left the developers of the LADY ALEXANDRA (see illustration below) unable to construct their proposed 12 storey development.

Council also moved one step closer to the issuance of a cannabis retail store.

Council endorsed my motion to designate White Rock's pier as THE LONGEST PIER in Canada.

Lady Alexandra 1310 Johnston Road

 

Voter Fraud Charges May Be Laid In Surrey

Surrey RCMP is in the final stages of their investigation into alleged election fraud during the civic election in September. The civic party WAKE UP SURREY group made the election fraud which triggered the RCMP investigation. Punjabi journalist SINGH SAHOTA who was also a member of WAKE UP SURREY alleged several voters contacted him claiming they had been pressured by their employer or relatives to cast their vote in a certain manner.

The RCMP will now present their findings to the crown to determine whether or not there is sufficient evidence to proceed with charges.

 

When You Gotta Go - You Gotta Go!

Have you ever found yourself need a restroom when you are shopping or visiting the uptown area of White Rock? If it is during the day the community centre and or Semiahmoo Mall offer relief.

But what about after hours or on the weekend when access is limited to these two public areas? 

Vancouver has now installed over two dozen self cleaning public restrooms through out the downtown core and in city parks.

Do you think White Rock should explore installing at least one facility uptown? 

Send a letter to the Mayor and council (click here)

(click here to see an interactive map created by the Downtown BIA of the 26 public washrooms in downtown Vancouver)

 

March 09, 2019

Semiahmoo First Nations Ground Breaking

Members of Surrey council (Doug Elford/Laurie Guerra) Semiahmoo Council (Harley Chappell/Joanne Charles/Genine Cook) and Gordon Hogg representing the federal government joined other federal officials for a ceremonial sod turning yesterday afternoon.

The occasion marks the beginning of construction for water and sewer lines to the band's land.

Councillors Fathers & Chesney were invited guests of the Semiahmoo band for the special occasion.

 

 

March 06, 2019

South Surrey/White Rock lost a couple gems that helped contribute and shape their community. 

l-r Cliff Annable / Leroy Geiger

Cliff Annable  was a larger than life figure. A veteran, a Councilor for the City of White Rock, a Rotary Club member, BIA member and was the owner of the Surrey Eagles for what I believe was their highlight era to date. He cared about his community and the people in it. He cares about his friends. He cared deeply for my family, always asking how my oldest daughter Gracie Booth was doing whenever he saw me. I will miss seeing him and listening to him constantly rib me about various things (if they don’t bug ya they don’t like ya). 
Rest well Cliff. You’ve earned it. 

Leroy Geiger. 
The Crescent Park elementary teacher that shaped how so many of us understand our English language. He would ride his bike to work almost every day. Made sure his students acted appropriately and had fun. He was responsible for the grade 7 band at that time hosting the practices in his classroom. He also is a reason I have an appreciation for classical music. I’ll never forget the field trip the the VSO in grade 7. Probably why I continued to play the trombone through high school. 

SCOTT BOOTH White rock Fire & Rescue

 

March 05, 2019

DON'T BE A DOPE!! 

There is a new batch of cocaine & heroin laced with fentanyl on the streets of Surrey and White Rock. This past Sunday alone 12 people were rushed to hospital after overdosing.

 

Our new office! 

Due to the damage to the White Rock pier the popular White Rock Sea Tours was forced to find a new home.

We are one week away from opening our new office at the Crescent Beach Marina 12555 Crescent Road South Surrey! More info to follow... Our season is beginning and we are starting to do more trips whale watching Water Taxi boat rides scattering ashes ... Visit our website at www.whiterockseatours.com

March 04, 2019\

Youth Ambassadors Step Up!

(left to right)Simrit K. & Emma Rose H.

These are two of White Rock Youth Ambassadors that have been “ called into action “ when our beloved pier was damaged in December. They began raising money to help restore it. They began a pier display of donated artwork at Landmark pop up gallery 15140 N Bluff ( right down from Natures fare)
To date they have raised almost $4000 with Telus matching up to $10,000. They need our help . 
They have some beautiful pieces of art to sell and will take any donation large or small. This is an incredible example of what we want in our children

 

Congratulations to Semiahmoo Totems

Gordie Hogg photo

 For all of accolades and all of the recognition they receive, the vast majority of Surrey’s Semiahmoo Totems are still over two full years away from donning cap and gown at their high school commencement ceremonies.

And so when the province’s No. 1-ranked and undefeated senior girls Triple A basketball team walked out in front of a capacity crowd of some 1,900 fans Saturday at the Langley Event Centre to try to win its first B.C. high school senior varsity title since 1953, they were finally staring out into lights they thought might be a little too bright.

“I think it was mostly nerves,” admitted the Totems’ star point guard Deja Lee whose team found itself lodged in a 26-9 hole just over six minutes from halftime against the No. 2-ranked, veteran-laden Walnut Grove Gators of Langley.

“None of us had ever played in front of a crowd like that, and I think some of us were a little shocked by it,” continued Lee. “After a while, though, we realized that we could do this. We got our heads together. We took a deep breath.”

And when they exhaled, the Totems had managed a complete about-face en route to a 72-61 victory.

It was now official.

If you had ever wondered whether a team with a seven-player rotation which included six Grade 10s was capable of winning a top-tiered B.C. senior girls title, you had your answer.

Turn Back The Hands of Time

In recognition of the recent Semiamoo girls' basketball team ruling the province, here's a throwback to the '52/'53 Provincial Basketball Champions, – the 1953 Semiahmoo girls' basketball team. Back row, L-R: Les Martin, Patsy McKay, Heather Walker, Margo McCarty, Edna Kreeger, Murray Sanford. Front row, L-R: Donna Manten, Merle Ogden, Charlotte Cheverie, Anne Fennell, Wilma Bowers, Chris Uppguard. From “Years of Promise – White Rock 1858-1958” by Lorraine Ellenwood.

Courtesy TOM SAUNDERS

 

March 03, 2019

Have your say to make communities more walkable, bike friendly

British Columbians are encouraged to share their ideas to make walking, cycling and other kinds of active transportation safer, easier and more attractive.

“We know that people are looking for ways to get around without having to use their cars,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “We’re keen to hear what people think about building better, safer and smarter active transportation networks that work for people of all ages and abilities.”

Active transportation — whether it is on foot, bike, skateboard or wheelchair — gives people more options to get to their destinations safely and efficiently. By improving access to active transportation, people can be helped to get out of their cars, helping to relieve congestion, improve air quality and reduce pollution.

The Active Transportation Strategy is part of the provincial government’s CleanBC plan, launched last year to put B.C. on the path to reduce pollution, power the future with clean energy and create new opportunities for people in a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

(take the survey here)

 

March 02, 2019

Semiahmoo Town Centre is growing and changing. 

Help us shape the place you live, work and play. Take our survey at http://ow.ly/MuT250mhcNW

 

March 01, 2019

Money In / Money Out

White Rock council met with senior staff last evening to prepare the 2019 budget for the city of White Rock.

The public will be able to comment on the budget before it is finally improved. the PUBLIC MEETING will take place at White Rock city hall Wednesday March 13 @ 6 pm

 

February 25, 2019

Task Force on Truck Parking

The Task Force on Trucking Parking was formed last December with a one-year mandate to develop creative options and implement equitable and sustainable solutions for authorized commercial truck parking within Surrey. With Councilor Mandeep Nagra as Chair, work to understand and address the issues is underway. 

“If there is an industry many of us generally take for granted, it is trucking,” said Councillor Mandeep Nagra. “Yet, every citizen and business rely on trucks to bring us inputs for our businesses or our final products. The movement of goods, and our hard-working truckers, are vital to driving our economy forward.” 

Truck parking has been a long-standing dilemma in Surrey, as in other Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley communities.

“Where semi-trailer trucks and other heavy-goods vehicles park involves multiple issues including land use, environmental and public concerns, and potential bylaw infractions,” said Councillor Nagra. “Shaping possible solutions is work that requires the efforts of many to address.”

To generate practical and effective options by fall 2019, getting the input of a wide range of local truckers and stakeholders from the start is key. Understanding their concerns, priorities and ideas for possible solutions is the focus of the first phase of work by the Task Force.

City staff are hosting an Open House on Saturday, March 9, 2019 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at Surrey City Hall, Atrium.

Learn more at www.surrey.ca/truckparking.

 

1- South Surrey Community Profile- The profiles are based on census data collected every five years and were created by the City of Surrey Community Planning and the Marketing and Communication’s team. It's a great way to learn more about your area of Surrey!

2- South Surrey Crime Map for January - This map shows reported incidents for Auto Crime, Robbery and Break and Enter for South Surrey.

3- There were 14 reported Break and Enters in South Surrey between 2019-02-12 to 2019-02-25 
7 residential (Elgin, Grandview Heights, Sunnyside, Ocean Park and Crescent Beach)
3 shed/garage (Hazelmere, Sunnyside, and Grandview Heights)
4 commercial (Elgin and Sunnyside)
Out of the 14 reported, 6 of them were targeted because of a left open or insecure door. PLEASE also take the time to lock up and remove your garage door remote from vehicles that are parked in your driveways or on the street.

4- Stolen Auto List- There is 1 vehicle on this list from South Surrey. It was stolen from the 2800 Block of 156th. There were also 5 stolen vehicles dumped in South Surrey this week.

February 27, 2019

Campbell Valley Regional Park Expands

Campbell Valley Regional Park in the Township of Langley has expanded by 3.95 hectares (9.8 acres), following Metro Vancouver’s purchase of an ecologically-diverse parcel in the park’s northwest corner.

The land parcel features old field habitat, maturing Douglas fir forest and wetlands. The purchase increases the size of the park to 547 hectares (1,352 acres), and provides for greater ecological and trail continuity within the park.

Campbell Valley Regional Park contains the Little Campbell River floodplain, forested areas, meadows and wooded slopes. The park is loved for its scenic nature, equestrian trails, group picnic areas, camping facilities and pioneer heritage. It is also the site of Country Celebration, an annual fair that highlights the rural character and wildlife of the area. The park attracts over 600,000 visits annually.

February 22, 20

NEB green lights Trans Mountain project

The National Energy Board has given its approval to the controversial pipeline expansion project. The board was required to better consult with Indigenous communities and do more analysis on how the project would impact endangered southern resident killer whales. The future of the pipeline is now back in the hands of the federal government.

Peace Arch Hospice Society

Wednesday evening th South Surrey White Rock Chamber of Commerce  presented us with the Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award. We are so honoured to be recognized among all the other amazing recipients and nominees from our community.

This achievement would not have been possible without the help of our incredible supporters and team of compassionate volunteers. We cannot thank everyone enough for their support!

...also

White Rock Beach Beer Company - Business of the Year (Small 1-10 employees) (pictured above)

Ocean Park Pizza & Village Pub - Business of the Year (Medium 11-40 employees)

Joseph Richard Group - Business of the Year (Large 41+ employees)

Looby Doo - New Business of the Year

The Drama Class - Supporter of the Arts Business of the Year

Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club - Community Builder Business of the Year

Peace Arch Hospice Society - Non-Profit Organization of the Year

Mostafa Sabeti (Golden Glory Martial Arts) - Business Person of the Year (Self-Owned)

Ryan Moreno (JRG) - Business Person of the Year (Corporate)

 

An environmentally friendly hydrogen powered passenger train connecting the Pattullo Bridge in Surrey to Chilliwack

Instead of dreaming about high speed rail from Seattle to Surrey and or moving the BNSF tracks off the Semiahmoo waterfront, let's consider a transportation option that is sitting right in front of us.

Hydrogen Powered Passenger Train

The South Fraser Community Rail Task Force is a group dedicated to providing information to the public and political leaders in each community along the inter-urban rail route from Surrey to Chilliwack. We propose a state of the art, emission-free passenger train using hydrogen fuel cell technology to produce electrical power to connect these communities. 

Existing Track with Passenger Use Rights

The 99km passenger rail service will use existing track already servicing the communities from Surrey to Chilliwack. This existing rail line is available for passenger use at no cost due to a right-of-way owned by the people of BC

(click here to read the extensive full report) 

 

February 21, 2019

You've Got Mail!

Most residences in White Rock & South Surrey received this postcard in the mail this week.

Not what anyone wants to see as homeowners rush to try to catch a diminishing high point on a sinking real estate market.

 

He's Back!

Brooke Colby

Tireless promoter BROOKE COLBY appears not ready to take no for an answer. COLBY you may remember back in December when our pier was destroyed in a winter storm, came up with the idea of having an Evil Knievel motorcyclist jump the gap in the pier.

The city of White Rock to say the least was not impressed, mainly in that they heard about COLBY'S idea only after it hit the media. Since then COLBY has met with White Rock mayor DARRYL WALKER and has appeared before council to explain is his vision.

IN case you missed it, last month the CBC television show THIS HOUR HAS 22 MINUTES had a little fun with the idea.

(watch the video - click here)

COLBY plans on taking another run at White Rock council in the coming weeks.

 

February 20, 2019

Smarten Up Dog Owners

photo courtesy Garry Wolgemouth

White Rock council recently unanimously approved a "trial period" of 6 months to allow dogs on leash on the promenade. The trial period BEGINS October 01, 2019.

It has been reported on social media all weekend by the anti dog brigade that the promenade is now very busy with people walking their dogs. Keep it up folks and that trial period could disappear as quickly as it was invoked. If you see ANYONE walking their dogs on the promenade please inform them of the official start date and reinforce they are in danger of losing the trial period by ignoring the current by law of NO DOGS on the promenade!!!!

 

 

February 15, 2019

Lady Alexandra Runs Aground

Yesterday afternoon White Rock council convened to ensure the building permit application for 1310 Johnston Road would be withheld for an additional 60 days.

RECOMMENDATIONS 

THAT Council: 

1. Receive for information the corporate report dated February 14, 2019, from the Director of Planning and Development, titled “60-Day Extension of Period for Withholding a Building Permit for 1310 Johnston Road;” 

 

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS: 

1. Pursuant to section 463(3) of the LGA, Council hereby directs that a building permit in respect of the BP Application be withheld for a further period of sixty 60 days from the expiry of the 30-Day Period, i.e. for a further period of 60 days beginning on February 20, 2019. 

2. The OCP Amendment and the Zoning Amendment shall be referred to the City’s public consultation process and public hearing.” 

 

 

The City Connects E-Newsletter is here and filled with lots of cool highlights including information about how the City prepares for snowfalls, invitation to Our Pier: A Retrospective exhibit, Family Day message from Mayor and Council, and so much more!

(read City Connects here)

 

February 13, 2019

Ouch

One would have to think the developers of ALTUS won't be back before council for at least four years. This is a r3ecent ad the company ran in the Peace Arch News.

 

Charges laid in Scott Road SkyTrain Station shooting

Surrey RCMP advises that charges have now been laid in the shooting of a Metro Vancouver Transit Police officer at the Scott Road SkyTrain Station on January 30th. (see previous release)

Daon Gordon Glasgow, 35 years from Vancouver, has been charged with;

- Attempt murder using a restricted or prohibited firearm
- Discharging a restricted or prohibited firearm with the intent to endanger life
- Intentionally discharging a firearm while being reckless to the life and safety of other persons
- Unlawful possession of a loaded restricted or prohibited firearm

 

February 07, 2019

Could Surrey Be Metro Vancouver's High Speed Rail Terminus Line To Seattle?

Surrey could be the northern terminus of the proposed ultra-high-speed rail line connecting Metro Vancouver with Seattle, Portland, and other communities in between.

“We envision a high-speed rail from Seattle to the Lower Mainland with a terminus in Surrey,” said BC Premier John Horgan during a joint press conference with Washington State governor Jay Inslee in Seattle on Thursday

He emphasized that Surrey is the “fastest growing community in the Lower Mainland” and a terminus station located at Surrey “would connect to our SkyTrain and other public infrastructure to get to the airport, downtown Vancouver, and Fraser Valley.”

...sure. But who is going to front the projected $24-$42 Billion?

Planning work for the unfunded ultra-high-speed rail line is still in the very preliminary stages, but an early feasibility study completed in 2017 outlined one option of placing Metro Vancouver’s station — the line’s northern terminus — next to SkyTrain’s King George Station.

In the report, this option was also deemed to be  the “low cost” option of the five options “to reduce costs for right‐of‐way acquisition and complex engineering approaches required for dense, urbanized areas.”

The other options entailed terminus stations located at Pacific Central Station on the outskirts of downtown Vancouver or Vancouver International Airport. Pacific Central Station is currently the terminus station for VIA Rail, Amtrak, and various long-haul bus services.

Significant construction costs would likely be incurred for either of these terminus options, considering the significant tunnelling or elevated guideways — including a crossing over the Fraser River — required to reach the airport and especially Vancouver’s city centre.

Early construction cost estimates peg the project’s various route options at between USD$24 billion and USD$42 billion, with the majority of that cost allocated to the south of the border.

Artistic rendering of King George Hub at The Stations redevelopment, located next to SkyTrain’s King George Station. (PCI Group)

The route options vary in length between 435 km and 475 km, using maglev technology with trains running at speeds of 400 km/h — potentially connecting Vancouver with Seattle in just one hour. Trains with a 500 passenger capacity would run 12 daily roundtrips.

The study stated that about 50% of the ridership will come from the Portland-Seattle portion of the route while Metro Vancouver-Seattle will make up 25% of the total, with the remaining station pairs making up for the final 25% of ridership.

Over the decade-long construction period and the first 21-year operating period, it is estimated the rail line could generate anywhere from 157,200 to 201,200 average jobs per year, USD$242 billion to USD$316 billion in labour income, USD$621 billion to USD$827 billion in business output, and USD$308 billion to USD$399 billion in value added.

Placing the northern terminus station next to the Expo Line’s King George Station would particularly be highly beneficial to downtown Surrey. It would provide the emerging city centre with a significant catalyst for transformative economic development — especially when coupled with the growing regional SkyTrain network that provides the region with ease of access to the high-speed rail station.

“The Surrey Board of Trade would welcome a terminus station in Surrey for the proposed Vancouver-Seattle high-speed rail,” Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, told Daily Hive.

 

 

 

January 09, 2019

Best White Rock Storm Pictures

Former RCMP officer and media relations officer TIM SHIELDS who makes his home on the Semiahmoo Peninsula has been known for years for his beautiful landscape photos including many local photos.

As luck would have it SHIELDS was walking with his family on our white Rock pier when the storm began to tear the structure to pieces. See his amazing photos.

(view the entire collection of photos here)

 

Eagle Lands In New York

Devon Toews, who played for the Surrey Eagles during the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons, appeared in his first NHL game for the New York Islanders on Sunday night. His first NHL game comes in his third professional season after also spending three seasons with Quinnipiac University.

In the New York Islanders game Friday against the visiting Chicago Blackhawks, the overtime winner was credited on the scoresheet to Toews.

Just not the one you’re thinking of.

It was Devon Toews, former Surrey Eagles standout blueliner and 2013 BCHL All-Star, who notched the winner and his first NHL goal for the Islanders against the Blackhawks and his more well-known namesake, the Hawks’ captain Jonathan Toews.

After his initial shot was stopped by Chicago goalie Collin Delia, Toews put the rebound back on goal and it found its way through for the decisive tally at 1:48 of the extra session. It was just his fifth game in the NHL.

Toews becomes the 18th former Surrey Eagles player to appear in an NHL game. The full list includes:

1. Robb Tallas 2. John Craighead 3. Mike Bishai 4. John Grahame 5. Scott Gomez 6. Colin Hemingway 7. Shaone Morrisonn 8. Nathan Oystrick 9. Greg Zanon

10. Tyler Eckford 11. Mike Moore 12. Ben Maxwell 13. Andrew Hammond 14. Colton Gillies 15. John Negrin 16. Brandon Tanev 17. Danton Heinen 18. Devon Toews

NOTE: OUR SURREY EAGLES OF THE BCHL HOST COWICHAN THIS SUNDAY 4 P.M. @ SOUTH SURREY REC CENTRE

 

January 06, 2019 06, 2018

All Clear

The company that operates a train corridor that was blocked by a mudslide between White Rock and Crescent Beach  says it has cleared the path of debris.

BNSF Railway spokesman Gus Melonas says crews used cranes to remove debris and were able to clear the way for freight train service to resume.

He says Amtrak's passenger service between Vancouver and Seattle remains suspended.

The American passenger rail company suspended service on its Cascade line at noon on Friday, and says service is scheduled to resume on Sunday.

Melonas says BNSF is continuing its inspection of the area to ensure safe movement of the trains.

Amtrak is providing alternative bus transportation to affected passengers.

 

January 05, 2019

White Rock Mayor DARRYL WALKER - Pier Update

 

January 04, 2019

Storm 2018 Clean Up Work: Beaches and Promenade

Thursday, January 3, 2019 marks two weeks since the devastating windstorm swept through the City that resulted in extensive damage to the Pier, waterfront and boats along the marina.  BC Hydro reported it to be the most damaging in the Crown utility’s history.

We understand the significant value that the Promenade, waterfront and Pier bring to our community.

We thank our residents, businesses, and visitors for their understanding and patience while the City and BNSF Railway staff continue to perform major clean up work along East and West Beach including the Promenade. 

As this work is being carried out, it is very important that the public continue to respect the signage and keep a distance away from the waterfront, Promenade and Pier so that City staff, contractors and BNSF Railway crews can perform their work safely, efficiently, and expeditiously.

Assessment of the extensive damage to the Pier is being undertaken.

Memorial Park: Concrete Pour and Public Art Installation

The Memorial Park project is in the final stages of construction. The installation of the public artwork “Coastal Cradle” will take place during the first week of January during the stages of the final concrete pour.

 

CBC South of the Fraser Comes To Town

Jesse Johnston CBC reporter

CBC The Early Edition JESSE JOHNSTON who hosts a weekly radio show called South of the Fraser which airs usually on Wednesday morning @ 7:40 a.m. visited White Rock yesterday.

JOHNSTON was here to see how White Rock was fairing following the storm which hit the waterfront 2 weeks ago. The only person JOHNSTON spoke with was RIC WALLACE who locals recognize as the photographer that sells his prints in front of the museum daily. WALLACE rebuffs anyone that says he is making money off of others sorrow. His answer to that is simply this was history and many people want a photo to remember storm day December 20, 2018

 

 

January 3, 2019

Surrey RCMP investigate shots fired in Guildford area of Surrey

Surrey RCMP is currently on scene in the Guildford area of Surrey for a report of shots being fired.

At approximately 6:40 P.M. on January 2nd, 2019, Surrey RCMP responded to a report of shots fired in the 14000 block of 115A Ave., Surrey, B.C. Evidence was located confirming that shots had been fired.

Initial reports indicated that a Dark Coloured S.U.V. was observed driving away from the area with its headlights off. A similar vehicle was located, and 3 persons have been detained.
Officers are conducting neighbourhood canvassing and speaking with witnesses to obtain further information. The investigation is still in its early stages, but initial indications are that this is a targeted incident.

Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police are asking that anyone who may have witnessed this indent, observed a dark coloured S.U.V. fleeing from the area, or in the area are asked to call the Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police at 604-599-0502 or to call Crime Stoppers in reference to Surrey File # 2019-000878.

UPDATE January 04, 2019

Christopher BOUCHER, 30 years-old, has been charged with one count of Unlawfully discharging a prohibited or restricted firearm, one count of Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm, one count of Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm without being the holder of an authorization or license and one count of Occupying a vehicle knowing there was a prohibited or restricted firearm in the vehicle.

Jamie TIMBS, 42 years-old, has been charged with one count of Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm, one count of Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm without being the holder of an authorization or license and one count of Occupying a vehicle knowing there was a prohibited or restricted firearm in the vehicle.

“Thanks to the detailed information provided by witnesses and quick response by our Frontline officers, we were able to apprehend the suspects quickly,” says Superintendent Elija Rain, Investigative Services Officer. “Members of our General Investigation Unit believe that this was a targeted incident related to a personal dispute. We do not believe it was related to the Lower Mainland gang conflict.”

Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502. If you wish to make an anonymous report please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

This marks Surrey’s first shots fired investigation in 2019. The City experienced 38 shots fired incidents in 2018, a 36% decrease from 2017 and a 57% reduction since 2015.

 

 

 

January 02, 2018

Polar Bear Swim 2019

...you don't have to be crazy and for that matter you don't have to have a swimsuit.

The SUN Surrey United Naturist lined up for their clothing optional annual plunge into Boundary Bay @ Crescent Rock in Crescent Beach.

Down the beach an hour later in Crescent Beach a small but vocal crowd took the annual polar bear plunge @ 1 p.m.

Across the bay from Crescent Beach the Delta Polar Bear Plunge in its 39th year saw much larger crowds than normal. Due in large part to the White Rock polar bear swim being canceled due to the storm damage to the pier and the foreshore in White Rock. See you next year.

 

December 31, 2018

No It's Not April 1

Brooke Colby Productions Bringing Team Knievel To Jump Gigantic Gap in White Rock Pier. 

Local Promoter of the “Team Knievel's Most Unforgettable Motorcycle Feat” looking for go-ahead from city officials to help raise money to rebuild pier.

Sensitive to loss of “our community hub” impacting all residents of White Rock, local Promoter Brooke Colby is planning to launch a fundraising event in a most unusual way- he is planning to have one of Team Knievel's top motorcycle riders jump the gap left in the pier. Beginning January 9th, Brooke Colby Productions will be working with local and federal officials to obtain clearances to bring this event to White Rock. “White Rock needs a world-class event such as this that will bring back hope to this battered community,” says Colby.

Colby is not worried that pier cannot be made safe for this event. “Along with Knievel's technical team and provisions mandated by the insurance company’s underwriting team, this jump will be safe and secure!”

“Team Knievel remains a hero to so many that remember this family's fearless exploits, incredible outfits, and inspiring stunts. We are delighted to be working closely with America River Media Group to try and make this possible. Fans young and old will no doubt be amazed at what Team Knievel is attempting.” stated Brooke Colby, CEO of Brooke Colby Productions.

TO LEARN MORE.
Twitter: @whiterockpierj1
Instagram: whiterockpierjump
Brooke Colby call or text: 604.617.8438

 

December 29, 2018

Missing person to locate – Emily PRICE

Surrey RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a missing female.

Emily PRICE was last seen at approximately 6:30 PM on December 28, 2018 in the 10100 block of 156th Street in Surrey. She has not been seen or heard from since.

Emily PRICE is described as a 20 year old Caucasian female, 5'4", 88 lbs, with reddish brown hair and blue eyes. (Please see attached photo). She was last seen wearing a black sweater with red, ripped blue jeans and black heels. 

Police and family are concerned for her health and well-being as it is out of character for this person to be out of touch this long.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of this person is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca, quoting file number 2018-2018-192583.

December 27, 2018

SIC

You get the message though don't you?

 

December 24, 201r

RCMP Officer On The Pier When It Began To Break Up

RCMP media liaison officer TIM SHIELDS)

On December 20th, 2018, a winter storm in the City of White Rock, British Columbia, Canada made for some dramatic photos and resulted in the helicopter rescue of one man.

The event started out as a photo walk with my adult daughter.  Waves were crashing against the shoreline as we walked along the promenade which is a pathway usually busy with walkers.  The wind was blowing in strong gusts and picking up water with it.

(click here to read the full story and see the amazing close up photos)

December 21, 2018

WE WILL REBUILD!!

l-r White Rock fire chief PHIL LEMIRE and Mayor DARRYL WALKER

Yesterday morning White Rock mayor DARRYL WALKER and fire chief PHIL LEMIRE met with the press and imparted as much information as they had. Presently the pier is still under inspection from engineers to ascertain how much of the pier can be saved before rebuilding begins. Mayor WALKER said the city has already been in touch with the Province and the Federal government to inform them of the tragedy.

Mayor WALKER emphatically stated "We will rebuild." The cost and the time frame are unknown at this point in time

 

Gabrielle Trouton photo

In the harsh daylight of yesterday pictures began to surface of the damage to the iconic pier.

Darren Grieve photo

This aerial photo from the WX1130 traffic plane puts the section lost in perspective.

Gabrielle Trouton photo

Owners of boats that were washed ashore check out and remove valuables.

The city's east beach also suffered major damage. Cleanup will continue throughout the weekend.

Corry Kriticos photo

An entire section of the pier washed ashore all the way down at East Beach.

 

d.Pitcairn photo

Lost in all the news of the storm damage to White Rock was the fact the BNSF rail line on the Crescent Beach side of Camp Kwomais suffered heavy damage as the storm pounded the rail line bed. There have been no trains for the past two days since the storm. BNSF and AMTRAK are working hard to restore rail service by this afternoon (Saturday).

Here is the video everyone is talking about. The boats smashing into the pier and the aerial rescue of the one person trapped at the end of the pier when the storm broke the pier to pieces.

(click here)

Today Saturday 22) is the first day of winter - but it's also the first day of many in an effort to clean up the Pier and Promenade in White Rock. Our hearts go out to the boat owners, City crews and council, and everyone saddened by damage to such an memorable White Rock icon. 

The first Pier was built in 1914 - but the Pier damaged yesterday was re-built in 1977 *all thanks to* a community campaign. The pier was in serious disrepair in the early 1970s, and the Government of Canada intended to tear it down. Local residents appealed to the government and ran a community campaign to raise awareness and funds to restore this important landmark. The pier was officially re-opened on November 13, 1977.

Over the next week, we'll post a couple of historic images to remember the first time White Rock pulled together to save the pier. Who says we can't do it again.

December 20. 2018

Storm Causes Damage Like Never Before in White Rock

At approximately 1:30 Thursday afternoon heavy winds and an unusually high tide caused extensive damage to White Rock's pier and the Semiahmoo Sailing clubs boats.

As the winds continue to pound the pier more and more of the pier is breaking away (Harley Chappell photo)

The high winds somehow broke loose the dock on the west side of the pier where the local sailing club keep their boats. The boats and dock then turned into a giant ramming device as it pounded against the side of the pier it eventually smashed and sunk a number of sailboats before finally breaking through to the other side. 

Sailboats bash against the pier eventually tearing a portion right out

There have been no reports of injuries. A few walkers made a valiant jump when the pier first started to break up. Unconfirmed reports had one person stranded at the end of the pier and rescue crews were making plans for their removal.

UPDATE - Just after 3:30 the search and rescue helicopter arrived to remove the stranded citizen on the south end of the pier. The citizen (believed to be a male) was lifted off of the south end of the pier and deposited on the shore side of the washed out section of the pier

R.McGuire photo

Foster & Buena Vista one of many trees to come down

Meanwhile the hillside suffered major damage with a number of trees coming down. Emergency crews from the police and fire departments were stationed across the hillside turning motorists away.

 

B.C. votes 'no' to proportional representation

Results of the electoral reform referendum are in: over 61 per cent of British Columbians have chosen to keep our current first-past-the-post system. Just over 1,400,000 ballots were cast.

 

Surrey Couple See Convictions of Terrorism Stayed

Nuttall/Korody leave court Wednesday

B.C. couple found guilty of plotting to bomb legislature to walk free

A couple found guilty of plotting to set off pressure cooker bombs outside the provincial legislature have had their convictions stayed. The BC Court of Appeal has agreed 

with a lower court judge who said the RCMP officers manipulated John Nuttall and Amanda Korody into going ahead with the attack planned for Canada Day 2013.

 

No Prospect For Eagles

The top junior hockey players as chosen buy a select committee have been announced. Langley, Prince George, Chilliwack, Victoria, Vernon and Penticton have all had players from their roster chosen. Our Surrey Eagles of the BCHL are slip sliding down to the basement of the standings and as a result no Eagles were chosen to compete in January.

The Canadian Junior Hockey League, in partnership with the National Hockey League and Hockey Canada, as well as in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting, announced Tuesday the playing rosters for the upcoming CJHL Prospects Game, which will be held on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. MT at Pason Centennial Arena in Okotoks, Alta.

Each of the players chosen to participate in the CJHL Prospects Game were selected through the efforts of NHL Central Scouting and are currently among the top 40 CJHL prospects heading into the 2019 NHL Draft in Vancouver.

(click here for the full story)

December 19, 2018

Aligning Our Priorities: Council's Strategic Priorities

White Rock Community Centre 15154 Russell Av - January 09 & 10, 2019

Wednesday January 09 - 5 p.m.

Thursday January 10 - 8:30 a.m.

December 18, 2018

Surrey city council passes controversial operating budget

The new budget delays projects in the city such as a new ice rink in Cloverdale. Some angry residents stormed out of the chamber after the 5-4 vote.

Councillors Steven Pettigrew, Brenda Locke, Jack Hundial and Linda Annis voted against the controversial new budget.

 

As Close As We Will Come To A Ten Lane Bridge

The original George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project pushed the 10-lane bridge option without fully considering feasible alternatives or local opinions on the best path forward.

Those are the key findings of a technical review of the replacement project, which has been released by Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

“The 10-lane Massey bridge project was pushed ahead without the input of communities,” said Trevena. “The technical review of the project has confirmed this was the wrong project for the region. We need a better solution for this crossing to get people out of traffic and home with their families.”

The Province’s next steps reflect the extensive independent technical review undertaken by Stan Cowdell that found:

(click here to read the full report and options being considered)

 

Christmas Closure Hours - WR City Hall

City Hall (15322 Buena Vista Avenue) will be closed for Christmas December 24th to the 28th and will re-open December 31st, 2018 and closed for New Year’s Day on January 1st, 2019.

For more information for the Engineering & Municipal Operations and Recreation facilities operation hours, click here: https://www.whiterockcity.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=949

 

December 17, 2018

Think Of It As OUR B-Line

TRANSLINK will be receiving their order for 42 double decker buses in late Spring 2019. Some of the buses will be operational on the White Rock - Vancouver / 351 route by September 2019 at the latest. Now that's good news.

 

Big changes coming to Semiahmoo Mall. Construction is in full swing to renovate the old Field's store location. there will three new tenants. CRUNCH gym, WINNERS and a daycare/learning centre for per-schoolers.

 

 

December 15, 2018

Happy New Year

Ring in 2019 with live music, food trucks and plenty of fireworks!

For the fourth consecutive year, the Vancouver New Year's Celebration Society is proud to stage Concord's New Year's Eve Vancouver, an all-ages, family-friendly community celebration that transforms our beautiful downtown waterfront into an electric village.

This year's event is located at Jack Poole Plaza and the Vancouver Convention Centre, and will feature a variety of talent and performers, food trucks, enhanced indoor celebration zones, and early fireworks for families at 9:00 p.m. followed by a spectacular midnight countdown fireworks finale to ring in the new year.

The free outdoor street party will run from 7:00 p.m. to 12:10 a.m., and Vancouver's largest indoor NYE party held inside the Convention Centre will offer a front row view of the fireworks and additional entertainment.

 

Show Us The Money

At a meeting of the Mayors Council yesterday at Translink headquarters in New Westminster, Surrey mayor DOUG MCCALLUM was told by his lower mainland counterparts they would consider a move to Skytrain from Light Rail.

With the caveat that Surrey makes up the $57 million dollars already spent on research and land acquisition. MCCALLUM agreed to make up the loss with either cash or a land swap.

Mayors also discussed the fact that they had voted last month to work within the existing money set aside for light rail, which is $1.65 billion and staff’s belief that the entire project, from Surrey to Langley, cannot be built for that amount as the current cost estimate is $2.9 billion.

Instead it will make it to Fleetwood or Clayton Heights and a second phase will have to be done using part of the $1.9 billion in anticipated funding from the third phase of the regional transit plan set aside for South of Fraser rapid transit.

 

Lifting Christmas Spirits

3 Dogs Brewing has officially opened in their new location located at the corner of Russell Avenue and Johnston Road in uptown White Rock. Victims of demo viction in their old location in Royal Plaza the new location will be home for a couple of years until they relocate one more time when the new Miramar development opens

December 12, 2018

Welcome To Crescent Beach...we'll be with you in a couple hours

For the third time a BNSF freight train b locked access to Crescent Beach. Monday evening for 2 hours access to Crescent Beach was blocked when it was discovered by the train crew there was a mechanical problem.

After two hours of totally cutting off the seaside community BNSF uncoupled the cars and provided access in and out of the beach.

 

Happy Anniversary

l-r Scott Booth/Mike Passas

Congratulations to White Rock Fire & Rescue members SCOTT BOOTH and MIKE PASSAS on their 25th anniversary of keeping White Rock safe.

 

December11, 2018

White Rock Council

- Council approved the proposed 3% hike in water rates beginning in 2019

- A trial program to allow dogs on the promenade will go into effect in 2019. The city of White Rock will closely monitor the program to ensure all the dog by laws are fully enforced. The program will run between January 2019 - May 01, 2019 then September 01 - December 31, 2019

 

December 08, 2018

Inadmissible Patrons Program launches in Surrey

The Surrey RCMP, together with the City of Surrey, BC Restaurant and Food Services Association (BCRFA) and Restaurants Canada, are launching the Inadmissible Patrons Program (IPP) in Surrey this week to further support public safety and deter individuals who are associated to violent crime from being in Surrey. The creation of the program follows a key recommendation in the Mayor’s Task Force on Gang Violence Prevention Report, which was released in July 2018, and the 2017 BC Task Force on Illegal Firearms.

The Surrey RCMP Gang Enforcement Team (SGET) developed the IPP in conjunction with restaurant partners to help prevent violent criminal activity in and around licensed establishments to increase overall public safety as well as the safety of restaurant/bar patrons and staff. The IPP is modeled after the Vancouver Police Department’s successful Restaurant Watch program.

“The Inadmissible Patrons Program is one way that business owners, the City, and the RCMP will be sending a clear message to gang members that they are not welcome in Surrey,” says Assistant Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Surrey RCMP Officer in Charge. “This program also gives our Surrey Gang Enforcement Team an additional point of contact with gang members so we can continue to make it uncomfortable for those involved in organized or violent crime to be in this city.” 

Surrey’s new IPP is being rolled out in a graduated approach with eight restaurants and bars participating in the initial launch and more being added as the program grows. There are also plans to expand the IPP to major public events in Surrey and possibly other types of businesses in the future. Participating establishments will display the IPP logo in their window or other prominent location (see attached image).

Licensed establishments that are interested in joining the Inadmissible Patrons Program in Surrey can contact the Surrey Gang Enforcement Team at Surrey_IPP@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Currently there are no plans to expand the program to White Rock.

 

White Rock Panto - 2018 - The Tradition Continues

Robin Hood and the Skytrain of Doom (Panto)

The day before Robin Hood is to marry Maid Marion, the evil Sheriff of Nottingham hatches a scheme that would level Sherwood Forest to make way for a new Skytrain expansion. Robin and his Merry Men, along with the minstrel-fairy Alana Dale, must stop the Sheriff’s plan. Will good triumph over evil? And how do The Beatles fit into all of this?

 White Rock Players’ Club is still a much-loved community theatre group, producing five shows a year, which include comedies, thrillers, dramas and the ever-popular Christmas Pantomime – in fact, the Club is very likely the longest continuous presenter of Pantomimes outside the UK, with a different show every year since 1954.

(order your tickets here)

 

December 07, 2018

South Surrey Crime Report Courtesy Surrey RCMP

Christmas shopping is now getting fully underway. Please don't take your presents and put them in your vehicle in open view/ You will not the spike in theft from autos on the map above. Be careful out there. Lock your gifts in the truck.

Blue dots - Auto Theft

Yellow Triangles - Theft from autos

Some helpful tips to protect your property from theft:

Always lock vehicle doors.
Do not leave valuables in plain view inside of your vehicle.
Remove valuables and remote garage door openers from your vehicle when parked for the night.
Light up your home at night.

For those planning to travel over the Christmas Season:

· Have someone check your home daily.
· Do not let newspapers and flyers accumulate in front of your home.
· Have the mail picked up daily or have the Post Office hold your mail.

 

December 06, 2018

Merry Christmas

John B Vye lunching on the waterfront with is granddaughter

I have two friends ROGER CURRIE and JOHN B VYE who do commercial work in Vancouver. Their faces eventually are seen around the world when the commercials air. So next time you are standing in line at Penguin Meats or SAVE ON look around, you just might see JOHN B .VYE.

This holiday commercial for Hallmark cards is a tearjerker.

 

December 05, 2018

Our Purpose

Semiahmoo House Society, a non-profit organization located in Surrey/White Rock, exists to provide quality services and support to people with disabilities and their families in the community.

Our Philosophy

Semiahmoo House Society believes that people who have disabilities should be valued and included fully in their communities, with the same rights and responsibilities as all people living in Canada.  

We believe that all people have the right to control their own lives through personal choices about relationships, jobs, living arrangements, spirituality, traveling, and recreational activities, and that all people have the right to give back to their communities through volunteering and helping others. Everyone is entitled to live a happy, full and meaningful life. 

We also believe that these rights can be reinforced and protected by making sure that people are connected to and supported by friends, family, staff, and the community.

Please take a moment to watch this beautiful video the people of Semiahmoo House have created. Marvelous.

 

City of Surrey May Dissolve Cultural Development, Public Art Committee

Surrey City Council voted to review a proposal to dissolve five committees, including the Cultural Development and Public Art Advisory Committees. Under the proposal, they will be consolidated into a single committee: the Parks, Recreation and Culture Committee, to be established for a one-year period starting on January 1, 2019.

Other committees facing dissolution include the Diversity Advisory, Parks, Recreation and Sport Tourism and Seniors Advisory Committees.

At present, the Cultural Development Advisory Committee “advises council on ways to increase arts, heritage services and cultural activity.” The Public Art Advisory Committee “promotes the use of art in public spaces and reviews and recommends public art proposals.”

 

December 04, 2018

DOUG MCCALLUM Press Conference

Newly elected Surrey mayor DOUG MCCALLUM held a press conference this morning at Surrey city hall. MCCALLUM announced numerous cuts to projects that had been approved by the previous SURREY FIRST council.

On the list of projects that will be put on hold for the time being are;

Cloverdale ice rink expansion

Grandview Heights Community Centre & library

Expansion of the Fleetwood community centre and library

...a more detailed list of cuts and holds will be released in the coming days. On December 11 the city's FINANCE COMMITTEE will meet and more clarification is expected at that time.

 

November 30, 2018

Giving Tuesday

l-r Peace arch Hospice Director BETH KISH and TAMMY RITCHIE

South Surrey resident TAMMY RITCHIE stopped by the Peace Arch Hospice Society centre on Tuesday to make a sizable donation to the society.

Beth Kish / Jim Purcell, current President of the Semiahmoo Rotary Club

Executive director BETH KISH was also present a cheque for $12,000.00 on behalf of the local White Rock Rotary Club, The money was raised at the recent annual Sip & Savour Event held at the Washington Grill.

 

Compass Convenience

TransLink is introducing its first wearable payment option as part of our commitment to make taking transit as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Compass wristbands work the same as Compass Card; tap in and out when travelling on transit and reload online, at a Compass Vending Machine, by phone or in person. Customers using a wristband must tap the portion with the contactless symbol. Just like a Compass Card, a $6 refundable fee is charged when you pick up your wristband.

TransLink is releasing 1,000 blue adult wristbands and 1,000 orange concession wristbands December 3. We’re starting with a limited release to gauge interest and will provide more of them early next year if needed.

Wristbands are the latest convenience upgrade we’ve made for our customers. Over the past year, TransLink has also introduced:

The “Tap to Pay” open payment option which allows customers to tap their credit card or mobile wallet to purchase an adult fare
Major upgrades to customer information displays for real-time train arrivals and service information
Improved service announcement audio equipment along Expo and Millennium Lines
Visit the Compass Customer Service Centre at Stadium–Chinatown Station (Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or the West Coast Express Office in Waterfront Station (Monday - Friday 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.) to pick up a wristband while supplies last.

 

November 28, 2018

Latest Fatal Shooting in Surrey - Update

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is requesting public assistance to further its investigation into the shooting death of a Surrey man.

 

On Monday November 26, 2018 at around 11:46 a.m., the Surrey RCMP received reports of shots fired in the 5400-block of 146 Street. Police arrived to find a man, later identified as 41-year-old Ranjeev Sangha of Surrey, with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Those responsible for the shooting immediately left the area in a black four-door sedan (pictured).

Ranjeev Sangha

Approximately one hour later at 12:49 p.m., the Richmond RCMP was alerted to a burning black sedan in the area of the 12000-block of Cambie Road. It was found approximately 100 meters off of Cambie Road on a pedestrian path. Detectives would like to speak with anyone that has information about this vehicle and are seeking dash cam video from drivers who were travelling between Surrey and Richmond along Highway 99 or Highway 91 between 11:46 a.m. and 12:49 p.m.

It is still early in the investigation but investigators believe the murder of Ranjeev Sangha was a targeted incident and are working to determine motive.

IHIT is working closely with its partners from the Surrey RCMP, the Richmond RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence.

“Retracing Ranjeev Sangha’s movements prior to his death will be one of the priorities for our detectives and we urge anyone who can help us achieve this end to contact us immediately,” says Corporal Frank Jang of IHIT.

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

 

November 26, 2018

Coyote Warning - From FACEBOOK

They are everywhere on our peninsula ... year round....

. There have been packs of coyotes on blackie spit since I lived there in the 90’s. You live with nature. Get over it, and make sure your cat can get in at night. Geez.

 I saw two on King George and 156 a week or so ago and have also seen one at Bakerview Park. They're out there, same as always, just with less forest to hide in.

 There is a den close to the trail between crescent park and dogwood park. People with small dogs should keep them on leash and close.

 

November 23, 2018

White Rock Gets Slapped On The Wrist

The OIPC (“OIPC the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner ) has released its findings into their investigation into whether or not the City of White Rock is handling their Freedom of Information requests properly; Here is a portion of the report.
The OIPC conducted this audit of the City of White Rock’s (White Rock or City) freedom of information (FOI) program pursuant to s. 42 of FIPPA. In particular, the audit focused on whether White Rock has met their duty to assist FOI applicants under FIPPA. White Rock was selected for audit based on the high number of complaints and requests for review related to the City over the past five years in comparison to other municipalities. The majority of complaints submitted to the OIPC related to duties the City has under FIPPA, and whether they conducted an adequate search for records.

The objectives of this audit were to:
1. Determine whether White Rock’s FOI processes comply with legislative requirements, OIPC guidelines, and White Rock’s own FOI policies;
2. Identify any gaps or challenges in White Rock’s management of FOI requests; and
3. Make recommendations to improve White Rock’s FOI policies or practices.

Specifically, the audit found:
• White Rock failed to meet legislated timelines in 46% of sampled files;
• The City took an average of 38 days to respond to FOI requests overall;

1 BACKGROUND & METHODOLOGY
Audit & Compliance Report F18-02: White Rock | 4
• White Rock was more likely to fail to meet statutory timelines when responding to FOI
requests by recurrent applicants compared to other applicants;
• In 2017, White Rock took an average of 22 days longer to respond to requests by recurrent applicants compared to other applicants;
• In 2017, White Rock took an average of 13 business days to forward requests to City departments to begin the search for records; and
• White Rock did not retain all relevant documentation in 26% of sampled files.

The report recommends that White Rock should:
1. Fully document all FOI requests, from the original request to the closing of the file;
2. Forward requests to departments to search for records as soon as possible; and
3. Respond to all FOI requests without delay and within legislated timelines.
Resource issues may impact the timing of White Rock’s responses, and need to be addressed. Public bodies must provide sufficient resources to the FOI function to ensure they fulfill their legislated mandate. With small shifts in their FOI process, the White Rock can bring their program into compliance with FIPPA.

((click here to read the full report)

White Rock Mayor DARRYL WALKER

UPDATE

White Rock mayor DARRYL WALKER has publicly distanced himself and members of council regarding the official statement released by the city regarding the OIPC's findings. WALKER is now on record as saying the "official" statement was not =vetted by him or council.

 

November 22, 2018

Meet Your Surrey Council

The mayor and eight councillors make up city council, the governing body of the City of Surrey. The main functions of a municipal council are to look after the current and future economic, social and environmental wellbeing of its community.

New council members elected in the 2018 election were sworn into Office on November 5, 2018.

(click here to meet the 2018-2011 Surrey council)

 

RCMP seek witnesses and video for motor vehicle collision investigation

Surrey RCMP is seeking witnesses and video related to a motor vehicle collision in the South Surrey Area. 　

On November 14, 2018, at approximately 5:27 pm. Surrey RCMP responded to a pedestrian involved motor vehicle collision in the 700 block of 176 Street. The pedestrian involved in the collision, an adult male, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and remains in the hospital at this time.

Investigators are asking anyone who was a witness to this incident, or anyone who may have dashcam, or any other video which could assist in this investigation to please contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

 

November 21, 2018

Things Are Looking Up

The high-rise tower on the old Deals World site on Johnston Road will proceed. Despite the current council asking for a hold to be put on the developments below Thrift avenue on Johnston Road, the developer of the proposed tower on the Deals site was able to quickly submit their building permit before the closing date for the review of the Official Community Plan.

The Lady Alexander located at the corner of Roper and Johnston (1310 Johnston) did not make the deadline and as a result will have to wait for White Rock council to review the OCP and allowable height below Thrift on Johnston Road. Once the heights are established following community consultation the developers of the Lady Alexander will be afforded the opportunity to plead their case before council.

 

 

November 20, 2018

White Rock Council - The Coles Notes

GOVERNANCE AND LEGILSATION COMMITTEE

_Put the wheels in motion for the return of QUESTION PERIOD. Under the new format council will host a QUESTION & ANSWER period to start each council meeting. Residents will be afforded 2 minutes to speak directly to council and staff in a public forum.

LAND USE AND PLANNING

+Council informed staff the proposed scope of the Official Community Plan OCP review. The key points were;

1. height of buildings outside of the Town Centre

2. Transition neigh along North Bluff outside of the Town Centre.

3. Review Lower Town Centre vision

4. Staff were asked to bring forth options and visions for a re-do of the White Rock waterfront business district

Cannabis Legalization Status Report

-Council endorsed moving forward with the proposed one location for cannabis sales in White Rock. The trial business license will be for three years and if a successful applicant comes forward with a suitable location the city of White Rock will entertain a business license.

REUGLAR COUNCIL MEETING

+-Council has scheduled a public hearing for the application put forth by Three Dogs Brewery for relocation and expansion at 1515 Johnston Road. The public hearing will occur December 03 and a special council meeting will follow that day to review public input. The special meeting has been called to expedite the application in order to capitalize on the busy holiday season.

+Council did not pass the water rate increase proposed by staff. The motion that would have seen single family homes pay an additional $4.00 per month and individual strata owners would pay $1.00 more monthly. Councilors Fathers/Chesney and Mayor Walker voted to support the recommendation. the motion was defeated 4-3.

+Council approved an additional $775,00.00 to complete the Memorial Park project.

 

Mayor McCallum and City Council approve free parking

At last night's regular council meeting, City Council unanimously approved two hour free parking for on-street parking around Surrey Memorial Hospital (SMH) and at the City Hall Parkade.

“I firmly believed that people visiting their loved ones at Surrey Memorial Hospital should not pay for parking, nor should our citizens have to pay to park their vehicles when conducting business at their “house,” which is City Hall,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “This was a promise that my team and I campaigned on and we have taken immediate action to deliver on it.”

With Council’s decision tonight, the 103 on-street pay parking spaces around SMH and up to 165 spaces for the public at the City Hall Parkade are free of charge for the first two hours for visitors. The two hour time limit has been implemented in order to ensure that the spots are being utilized as intended and discourage external users, such as park-and-ride, from occupying the stalls for an extended length of time.

 

 

The GEORGIA STRAIGHT weighs in on why they think Surrey should stay with Light Rail. An interesting perspective.

There's a reason why the Surrey Board of Trade is so vehemently in favour of the sensible Surrey-Newton-Guildford LRT project.

It's affordable and it has the potential to be extended to other town centres in Surrey.

The SkyTrain line, on the other hand, will simply bring more people from Surrey into Vancouver, where they'll spend their money and go to work.

(read the full Georgia Straight article - click here)

 

Hospital Hospice Addition

The walls are up and windows are going in! Amazing progress being made to our new Residential Care Facility featuring the George and Sylvia Melville Hospice Home being build adjacent to the hospital. Drive by to see the progress today.

 

November 15, 2018

New Pub Application - Uptown White Rock

Three Dogs Brewing who were just nicely settling into their new home last year in the Royal Bank Plaza, when word came down the plaza had been sold. It appeared that the craft brewery would have to move out of White Rock due to the lack of a suitable location.

The closing of the grocery store located on Johnston Road @ Russell avenue turned out to be very fortuitous for Three Dogs. The capacity in the new location would be considerably more and the owners propose a large outdoor patio on Johnston Road.

 

November 18, 2018

How Hot Was It?

Well as White rock recorded Canada's high temperature Friday (15.7 Celsius) , a city worker in White Rock decided the lawn needed a trim.

...but up at SAVE ON they have winter on their mind. Do they know something we don't?

 

November 17, 2018

South Surrey King George Traffic Change Next Week

Crews will be repairing the single-lane Bailey Bridge crossing of the Nicomekl River in south Surrey and northbound traffic will be diverted onto the adjacent two-lane structure from Nov. 19 to Nov. 26, 2018.

For up-to-date traffic information, follow @DriveBC on Twitter or visit: www.DriveBC.ca

 

November 16, 2018

Shut It Down!

At its first meeting since the civic elections last month, the Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation has endorsed the City of Surrey’s decision to cancel light rail and switch the technology to SkyTrain.

“Surrey has long been a full partner in building rapid transit transportation for the rest of the region and Surrey has been waiting a long time for its turn,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “I commend the members of the Mayors’ Council who supported the resolutions for their foresight and recognition that the residents of Surrey have said unreservedly that the best rapid transit option for our city is SkyTrain. This is a golden opportunity to move forward and start building.”

On November 5th, after taking the Oath of Office, Surrey City Council convened a Regular Council meeting where a motion was introduced and passed unanimously to cancel the Surrey Newton Guildford LRT project and to begin work on extending the existing SkyTrain network in Surrey from King George Station to Langley City. The City’s Engineering and Transportation staff have already started work on the SkyTrain project in Surrey.

“Just as Surrey City Council has moved quickly on the wishes of our residents, I want to thank the members of Mayors’ Council for dealing with this important issue in such a timely manner,” said Mayor McCallum. “Today’s decision at Mayors’ Council fits well with the Mayors’ Council’s 10 Year Plan, which the City of Surrey fully supports, as SkyTrain is a known and proven technology and is the only rapid transit technology deployed in the entire Metro Vancouver region.”

The decision made today at the Mayors’ Council’s meeting is a significant step forward in realizing a new SkyTrain rapid transit line in Surrey. The Mayors’ Council’s report on “South of Fraser Rapid Transit” can be viewed in its entirety here.

 

Surrey Tops List

- Canadian cities get failing grades on financial transparency. The C.D. Howe Institute compared the budgets and year-end financial reports of 31 of Canada’s largest municipal and regional governments, and 16 of them got grade of D or F.

(read the full report)

 

Fatal Pedestrian Accident

Wednesday evening at supper time a pedestrian was struck near the intersection of 176th street & 8th Ave near Campbell Valley General Store. Witnesses on the scene reported the individual that was struck was crossing mid-block in the dark.

The pedestrian suffered very serious injuries and was flown by helicopter to hospital.

 

November 15, 2018

White Rock Is A Dangerous City?

The current edition of MacLeans Magazine on newsstands now ranks Canadian cities and how safe each city is.

White Rock ranks in the top most dangerous cities to live. White Rock ranked in the Top 100 dangerous cities. It would appear our ranking ratings were high due to an above average incident of fraud based largely on part on our above average senior population.

(see the full report here)

 

Does a lack of diversity on council put municipalities at risk?
Local politics are often viewed as an entry point into political life – as a result, we might expect to see councils that are more diverse. However, that expectation is simply not borne out.

(click here to read the full story)

 

 

November 14, 2018

Shooting at Short Term Rental

On (Sunday Morning) November 11th, 2018 at 00:04 hrs, White Rock RCMP received several reports of shots fired in the 15500 block of Columbia Avenue. Callers reported hearing 3-6 loud pops from outside a residence, which was later determined to be a short term rental property. Police were advised that there were approximately 30 people partying and that they were fleeing the residence following the loud pops.

Police arrived and located a male victim a short distance away from the house, who had suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound. This male was treated at hospital and was subsequently released. He is not cooperating with the police investigation at this time.

Police initially arrested two adults and one youth who fled from police as they attempted to stop their vehicle leaving the scene of the shooting. The investigation has now cleared the males of being involved in the shooting and they have subsequently been released without charge.

The investigation is ongoing and police are canvassing the area for video surveillance. White Rock RCMP are requesting if you have any information regarding this investigation to please contact Cst. Laura Shaw at 778-593-3632.

 

Surrey councillor resigns from AutismBC after anti-SOGI backlash

Laurie Guerra has stepped down from her position as a director of AutismBC. A petition called for her resignation, following a NEWS 1130 exclusive story about Guerra and another newly elected Surrey councillor attending a secret anti-SOGI meeting

 

November 13, 2018

Broad Daylight Gunfight?

Surrey RCMP investigate shots fired in Guildford Area

Surrey RCMP is currently on scene in the 8000 block of 153A Street of Surrey for a report of shots fired.

At approximately 1:28 PM on November 12th, 2018, Surrey RCMP responded to a report of shots fired in the 8000 block of 153 A Street. Officers attended and located evidence to support that shots had been fired in the area .
Initial information was that the shooting was between two vehicles which had fled the area. No victim has been located at this time.

Officers are on scene and will be conducting neighbourhood canvassing and speaking with witnesses to obtain further information regarding this incident. This may result in minor traffic disruption.

The investigation is still in its early stages.

Anyone with further information who has not already spoken to police is asked to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.

 

November 09, 2018

Extraordinary Meeting

Late Tuesday afternoon our newly elected mayor DARRYL WALKER informed council and staff he wished to call an extra ordinary meeting of council. The reason for the meeting was to address quickly one of the campaign promises mayor WALKER and his fellow Democracy Direct councillors had made during their run up to being elected.

A key point in their platform was a review of the newly created OCP which Democracy Direct felt had erred in a number of different zones. WALKER had also asked senior staff if there was any way the current council could slow down the rate of development while the review was taking place.

Staff informed WALKER and inadvertently council if a building permit had not been issued then the project could be put on hold while the OCP was being reviewed. Staff then indicated to WALKER and council there were only three projects that fell into this category.

1. 1310 Johnston Road

2. 1350 Johnston

......plus the Forge properties application in the 1400 block of Johnston Road. 

Council indicated only the two projects south of Thrift road on Johnston Street would need to be held in abeyance until after the review took place. Council now has 60 days to quickly review the current OCP and to bring forth any changes they would like to see.

Councillors ERIKA JOHANSON and ANTHONY MANNING did not support the motion to proceed with allowing any height about 3 stories south of Thrift. The motion passed 5-2.

The next regular meeting of council will be Monday November 19 @ 7 p.m. city hall.

 

A man has been shot and killed in the Newton area of Surrey

The 22 year old victim was found outside a home on 70-A Avenue near 142nd Street just after 1:30 this morning. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team is now in charge of the case.
IHIT took conduct of the investigation and has been working closely with its partners from the Surrey RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence. 

It is early in the investigation but detectives believe that this was a targeted incident and is associated to the ongoing gang conflict in the lower mainland.

"Although investigators are still working to determine the motive behind this homicide, there are no indications of an increased risk to the public as a result of this incident" says Cpl. Frank Jang of IHIT. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

 

 

 

November 07, 2018

October Crime Stats - South Surrey

October 2018 | Monthly Crime Maps
Monthly Crime Maps
Break & Enter | Auto Theft | Robbery

The Surrey RCMP have released their crime statistics and maps for the month of October. Follow the link

(click here)

White Rock RCMP do not make this information available for the public.

 

Province lowers speed limits on parts of some highways

The speed limits are being rolled back by 10km/h on several sections of highway, including Highway 99 from Horseshoe Bay to Pemberton, Highway 1 between Whatcom Road and Hope, and parts of the 97C. Last month, a study found fatal crashes have doubled on some routes where maximum speeds were boosted back in 2014.

 

Wheels Of Justice - Move Slow

In the early morning hours of July 18, 2015 South Surrey resident HUDSON BROOKS was fatally wounded during an exchange with a South Surrey RCMP officer outside of the detachment located on Johnston Road @ Martin street.

Surrey RCMP officer Constable ELIZABETH CUCHERAN was later charged with f aggravated assault and assault with a deadly weapon,

Family members and supporters were in attendance yesterday at Surrey Provincial court to witness the beginning of the trial by judge and jury.

It is a preliminary trial that will run this week to Thursday and then December 18, 19, 20 and 21.

The judges has imposed a publication ban.

 

November 06, 2018

White Rock & Surrey Councils Sworn In

Unofficial White Rock Council photo

l-r front row - Councillor Anthony Manning/Mayor Darryl Walker/Councillor Scott Kristjanson

l-r back row Councillors David Chesney/Erika Johanson/Helen Fathers & Christopher Trevelyan

The official swearing in ceremony of the 2018 White Rock council took place last evening at the White Rock community centre. Mayor DARRYL WALKER'S speech signaled a new era of governing had arrived in White Rock with the election of the new council.

Guest of honour included HARLEY CHAPPELL (leader of the Semiahmoo First Nations) who sang a welcoming song, past White Rock mayors JUDY FORSTER/CATHERINE FERGUSON/HARDY STAUB and current MP GORDON HOGG, former White Rock councillors, MARGARET WOODS/DAVID WEBB/LOUISE HUTCHISON/DOUG MCLEAN/KEN JONES/BILL LAWRENCE and current school board representative LAURA MCNALLY.

 

Surrey Mayor DOUG MCCALUM

Mayor Doug McCallum and the new members of Surrey City Council officially took the Oath of Office at an inauguration ceremony held this evening at City Hall. Immediately after being sworn into office, Surrey City Council convened a Regular Council meeting where a motion was introduced and passed to cancel the Surrey Newton Guildford LRT project and to begin work on extending the existing SkyTrain network in Surrey from King George Station to Langley City.

Council also approved a motion to start work on creating a Surrey Police Department and serve notice to the Federal and Provincial governments that the City of Surrey will be terminating its contract with the RCMP municipal police service.

“What City Council has done is immediately deliver on the wishes of the people of Surrey,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “It was very clear to me that with all the people I spoke to and heard from that SkyTrain and Surrey establishing its own municipal police force are what is best for our city. As the elected representatives of the citizens of Surrey, we are delivering not just what we promised to do, but we are acting on what the people have said would be best for their city.”

 

October 30, 2018

Let There Be Light

The city of White Rock has now completed the replacement of the tree lights along the city's waterfront promenade walk.

Last year the community was thrilled with all the new lighting, which unfortunately did not turn out to be compatible located in close proximity to the ocean where the wind and rain caused major damage. Here's hoping the new lights fare better.

 

Charges laid in fatal 2017 collision 

Following a complex year long investigation by Surrey RCMP, charges have been laid in connection with a two motor vehicle collision which occurred on May 3, 2017 in Cloverdale.

It is alleged that collisions involving the same suspect vehicle, resulted in bodily harm to one victim and the death of 17-year-old male youth.

Rituraj Kaur Grewal of Surrey, has been charged with criminal negligence in the operation of a motor vehicle causing death, criminal negligence in the operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm, and failing to remain at the scene of a collision.

The charges were sworn and an arrest warrant was issued on Monday, October 22, 2018. Grewal appeared on Tuesday, October 23, and was released on conditions. Her next scheduled court date is November 13, 2018.

"This was a tragic incident that claimed the life of a promising young athlete in our community and injured another person," says Cpl Elenore Sturko. "The Surrey RCMP continues its priorty of road safety in our community by way of enforcement, education and prevention."

The family of the male youth has asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.

 

October 26, 2018

Panel finds Surrey pastor, his son and White Rock man committed fraud

Pastor Alan Jerry Braun

A British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) panel has found that two Surrey residents – a pastor and his son – and a White Rock resident committed fraud against two people in a real estate related investment scheme.  The panel also made fraud findings against three corporate entities  – Braun Developments (B.C.) Ltd., 0985812 B.C. Ltd. (TerraCorp Investment Ltd.), and 8022275 Canada Inc. 

A BCSC panel found that Alan and Jerry Braun, and Steven Maxwell (a.k.a. Steven Fassman), committed fraud when they took $450,000 from two investors in three different transactions. 

"In each case, the prohibited act or deception clearly resulted in the risk of deprivation and, ultimately, actual deprivation to the investors," the panel said in its findings. 

The panel also found that Braun Developments and 8022275 Canada Inc. committed fraud with respect to the three investments in the amount of $450,000, and TerraCorp Investment committed fraud with respect to two of the investments in the amount of $300,000.  Alan and Jerry Braun, both directors and officers of Braun Developments and TerraCorp Investment, were responsible for directing the affairs of both entities. Maxwell was a director of 8022275 Canada Inc. and was responsible for its affairs.

The three men and the companies that they controlled deceived the investors by leading them to believe that they were purchasing real estate investments in Edmonton that would yield very high returns in a short period. In the end, the Brauns and Maxwell did not use the investors' money to invest in real estate. Instead, they used the investors' money for other purposes, including for their own personal living expenses.

The panel directed the parties to make submissions on sanctions according to the schedule set out in the findings.

 

White Rock Hold Up

White Rock RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect who robbed the 7-11 Esso located at 1595 Nichol Rd. White Rock, BC on Sunday October 21st, 2018 at 0515 hrs. The suspect entered into the store through the main doors and physically assaulted and threatened the clerk before stealing cigarettes, lottery tickets and cash.

The suspect is described as:

• Race: Unknown – body completely covered head to toe;
• Believed to be male by the sound of his voice, Spoke English, no accent;
• Medium build;
• Orange pink like balaclava covering his face;
• Blue heavy winter jacket with white stripes down the arms with NBM STAFF written on the back of the jacket;
• pulling a backpack on wheels.

October 25, 2018

Rail Safety Improvement Update:

At-Grade Construction to Begin at Ash and Bay Street Crossings

Construction work for the At-Grade Crossings Project will begin this month at Ash and Bay Street Crossings for improved signalization and crossing approaches for pedestrians as part of the federal funding toward rail safety-related projects on the Peninsula.

The main driver for this project is to increase rail safety and to enable application for whistle cessation. The project will improve accessibility of the crossings and provide an audible warning to pedestrians for approaching trains.

Project Scope:

• Construction of retaining walls
• New electrical conduits
• Paving
• Signals
• Gates

Construction will take place between 7:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. in keeping with the City’s Noise Bylaw and is expected to be completed in May 2019. 

 

October 23, 2018

How Did The Rest Of The Province Vote?

(click here for a link that will tell you all the election results from across B.C. simply enter the name of the city you are looking for)

 

October 22, 2018

White Rock Council 2018-2022

Mayor

Daryl Walker

Councillors

Helen Fathers

David Chesney

DEMOCRACY DIRECT

Christopher Trevelyan

Erika Johanson

Scott Kristjanson

Anthony Manning

(click here to read the full results)

 

Surrey Council 2018-2022

Mayor

McCALLUM, Doug SAFE SURREY COALITION

Councillor

LOCKE, Brenda SAFE SURREY COALITION

40388 VOTES

ELFORD, Doug SAFE SURREY COALITION

38997 VOTES

GUERRA, Laurie SAFE SURREY COALITION

33887 VOTES

HUNDIAL, Jack Singh SAFE SURREY COALITION

33705 VOTES

PATTON, Allison SAFE SURREY COALITION

33026 VOTES

ANNIS, Linda SURREY FIRST

32943 VOTES

PETTIGREW, Steven SAFE SURREY COALITION

30749 VOTES

NAGRA, Mandeep SAFE SURREY COALITION

30048 VOTES

 

Read the final election results for White Rock.

The turnout for this election was above normal checking in at 38%. Find out where the votes came from and where they went.

(click here for final survey)

 

October 15, 2018

You Be The Judge

en·dorse

a. To express approval of or give support to, especially by public statement

 

Over the weekend THE WHITE ROCK COALITION group who are running behind the leadership of GRANT MEYER who is vying for the mayor's chair in White Rock, took to social media (at this point) with the above posting/ad.

Is HOGG endorsing THE COALITION? You be the judge.

When the blow-back hit HOGG over the weekend he informed THE COALITION the messaging needed to be changed. This is the new version. In your mind is it any better?

Is it an endorsement?

 

UPDATE ; 

FYI October 19, 2018

There is nothing in the LGA that would prevent another elected official from endorsing a local government candidate. This is pretty common practice in many places throughout the Province.

Sincerely,

Scott Leitch | Governance Analyst
Governance and Structure Branch | Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

 

Friday LANCE PEVERLEY the editor of the Peace Arch News weighed in on whether or not MP GORDON HOGG had in face "endorsed" councillor MEYER for mayor.

(read the full commentary here)

 

October 12, 2018

Possible voter manipulation in more Metro Vancouver cities

The City of Vancouver says it's investigating in conjunction with the cities of Richmond and Burnaby. It has notified the VPD. This comes as Mounties in Surrey confirm dozens of absentee ballot applications are fraudulent, more than a week before voters head to the polls.

 

The investigation into concerns of possible wrong-doing in Surrey’s mail ballot registration process for the 2018 Civic Election is progressing.

To date, 69 out of 73 people whose personal information was used to complete the application to vote by mail have been interviewed. (Note: Previously, Surrey RCMP stated 72 vote by mail applications were being investigated; this number should be corrected to 73 applications identified by Surrey’s Chief Elections Officer as having irregularities.) The investigation revealed that 67 of these applications were fraudulent, in that they were not completed or signed by the voter listed on the application. Two of these applications requested ballots be sent to addresses that were not associated to the named applicant; the other 65 applications listed the applicant’s correct address for delivery of the voting ballot.

It should be noted that no ballots were sent out to any individuals or residences based on the fraudulent applications. The process to apply for a mail ballot was amended by the Chief Elections Officer on October 1st to preserve the integrity of the election.

To date, the investigation team has not found any evidence to link any candidate or party to the fraudulent applications.

At this time, the investigation has not revealed any indication that people were induced or intimidated in any manner to provide their personal information or to vote for a specific candidate.

Investigators have identified and interviewed two persons of interest in this investigation, however further investigation will be required to determine if criminal charges or charges under the Local Government Act are warranted.

On October 3, 2018, the Surrey RCMP set up a dedicated phone line for this investigation. To date, a total of six calls have been received on the tip line with two of those calls requiring follow-up by investigators which has been completed.

Concurrent to the investigation of the vote by mail applications, Surrey RCMP was made aware of third hand information regarding international students providing personal detail in exchange for money. Thus far, investigators have not located any evidence to substantiate these claims nor have any victims come forward to police.

It is important for the public to recognize that measures were taken by Chief Elections Officer to amend the application process to preserve the integrity of the election process. It is also important to recognize that no ballots were delivered to voters as a result of the fraudulent applications.

While the police do not routinely release details of on-going investigations, this update is being provided to reassure the public and allow for transparency in the election process.

The Surrey RCMP is asking anyone who believes they have been or may have been induced or intimidated for votes or personal information for voting purposes, to report it directly to the police through our dedicated phone line for this investigation at 604-599-7848.

 

Known To Police

Yesterday afternoon just before 2:00 p.m., the Surrey RCMP was called to the 6700-block of 130 Street for a report of a shooting. Responding members located the victim and attempted life-saving measures until the BC Ambulance Service and Surrey Fire Department took over, however the male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at scene. 

IHIT is working closely with its partners including the Surrey RCMP Serious Crime Unit, Lower Mainland Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to gather evidence.

In order to further the investigation, IHIT is confirming the victim as 30-year-old Sumeet Randhawa of Surrey. Mr Randhawa was known to police.

“This is believed to be a targeted incident related to the ongoing Lower Mainland gang conflict and anyone with information is asked to contact IHIT” says Detective Lara Jansen of IHIT. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

 

CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION PORTAL 

Welcome to the City of White Rock's Construction Information Portal!

This area acts as a one-stop-shop ‘portal’ where residents and businesses can get up-to-date and at-a-glance information about major private sector construction projects (with approved zoning) happening in our City.

To find out more about various City capital projects relating to beautification, revitalization, and infrastructure upgrades (e.g. the Johnston Road Gateway Streetscape Project, the Memorial Park Upgrade, etc.), you can find out more at our City Projects webpage.

 

 

 

 

May 20, 2016

RCMP Investigating Arsons

There has been no official word on the cause of the blaze that destroyed the two condo complexes at 5 Corners Sunday.

What we do know is there were no less than four fires set throughout the city of White Rock and close proximity Sunday morning.

 

#1.

A children's playground constructed from wood and plastic and located on the Cypress street road end @ Victoria avenue was set ablaze in the early hours Sunday morning, No injuries. Fire quickly extinguished

 

#2

Major condominium fire on Royal and Pacific Avenue. Time 4:30 a.m.

 

#3

Sandpiper Liquor store is broken into @ 5:10 a.m. Owner confirmed the CCTV cameras captures clear pictures of two suspects robbing the liquor out of the window.

 

#4.

10:30 a.m. a fire is started in an alleyway off of Pacific avenue near Stayte road. Fire quickly extinguished no major damage. No injuries

 

#5

12 noon residents of the Semiahmoo First Nations witnessed an individual attempting to start a building on fire behind the band's office. The Surrey RCMP responded to the 911 call and took the suspect into custody.

The suspect taken into custody Sunday appeared in Surrey Provincial court Tuesday morning where he was charged with arson damaging property.

The accused is 18 year old JAMES DYER of Surrey was released on his own recognizance.

The White Rock & Surrey RCMP continue their very active investigation today.

May 19, 2016

Mayor Caught Between White Rock & A Hard Place

That's the headline you will see when you pick up your copy of THE PROVINCE today.

White Rock mayor WAYNE BALDWIN and former White Rock resident and council candidate DENNIS LYPKA go head to head on the pro's and con's of White Rock rejoining Surrey.

(click here to read the story and to watch the video)

 

May 17, 2016

Eye In The Sky

White Rock resident and traffic reporter for WX1130 DARREN "Danger" GRIEVE sent along this picture taken yesterday afternoon. The fire started at the rear of the condo project under construction pictured in the top left hand corner of photo.

No official announcement has been made yet on whether or not it will be possible to rebuild or if the whole structure will have to come down.

 

May 15, 2016

Five Corners Fire

Smoke could be seen for miles as the fire ripped through the condo structures. This shot was taken by a reader from the Inn @ Semiahmoo in Blaine.

The fire broke out early this morning around 5 a.m. in a wooden three storey condo under construction on Royal Avenue in the 15200 block. The fire quickly jumped to the condo located at 5 Corners. The fire at one point threatened the Star of the Sea hall located next to the condo. Firefighters fought the fire from the roof of the Star of the Sea in order to prevent the fire from spreading. Surrey and White Rock fire crews fought the stubborn blaze for hours before eventually bringing it under control at 8 a.m.

There have been no reports of any injuries.

The cause of the fire is unknown as the investigation is in the very early stage.

Photo courtesy Diana Arnold

Origin of fire in under construction condo on Royal Avenue

Photo courtesy Bill Brooks