Slowly but surely the Surrey Police Service are taking over policing from the RCMP for the City of Surrey. As of late July, the SPS began servicing the area south of the Serpentine River west of 152 St. to Hwy. 99 and west of Hwy. 99 south to the Canada/USA border at the Peace Arch Crossing. This includes the Semiahmoo First Nation while excluding the City of White Rock where the RCMP will remain the police of jurisdiction (POJ). For the other areas of South Surrey east of this area, the RCMP Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit (SPOSU) will continue patrolling and responding to calls. In 2026 the SPS plans to take over policing in Cloverdale as they continue to expand their operations to eventually take over all of the City of Surrey. For more information on Surrey’s continuing policing transition, visit www.surreypolice.ca/policing-transition.
The change in police forces across South Surrey has been very noticeable way beyond the colour of the cop cars or the uniforms that the officers are wearing. By far the most noticeable difference has been SPS squad cars performing routine patrols through the neighbourhoods. On multiple occasions I have witnessed SPS cruisers driving along local streets throughout Ocean Park keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. This has been quite the change from the RCMP who would usually only be seen when there was an emergency that they then responded with lights flashing and sirens blaring. In less than a month I have met the staff Sergeant for this area three times doing patrols in the Crescent Park and Crescent Beach area. Incredibly he even stopped off several times at the Crescent #240 Legion just to say hi and introduce himself to the staff and volunteers while inquiring about joining the club that supports veterans and first responders.
I grew up in Delta and the Delta Police Dept. that was established in 1888 had a reputation for being tough, no nonsense and omnipresent. Surrey was seen as the wild west but in Delta you didn't want to sneeze in case you attracted the attention of their police. I have had many conversations with members of the Delta Police Force where I questioned them about the differences in policing between Delta and Surrey. The consensus was that the RCMP were somewhat constrained by their methods of operations regarding patrolling, while in Delta having officers visible was seen as a crime deterrent. As one cop told me, the RCMP tend to sit in their stations waiting for 911 calls to come in, while the Delta Police are out on the streets keeping the peace and being able to react quicker because they are usually closer to any service call. The SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski was the former Police Chief in Delta, so it should come as no surprise that he has instituted a similar policing model here in Surrey.
On the subject of the RCMP, it was announced in late September that as part of an ongoing effort to modernize their uniforms, the RCMP were going to change the colour of their shirts. Gone will be the grey shirts, replaced with dark navy blue uniform shirts that match their pants. This roll out will begin in PEI in October and head westward across Canada over the next 18 months. You can expect to see RCMP officers still wearing the old grey uniform shirts for the foreseeable future but change is on the way. If you want to see what the new shirts look like along with the rest of the RCMP uniform, it is available on a news release at https://rcmp.ca/en/news/2025/09/rcmp-rolling-out-new-uniform-shirts-across-canada If you are not aware of how the SPS uniform looks including shoulder flashers featuring the Coast Salish eye, a fess (check) pattern and six stars, you can check it out on a SPS media release at https://www.surreypolice.ca/news-events/news/surrey-police-service-uniform-revealed
The very first SPS vehicles went into service in July of 2024 as described in this SPS media release from last summer: https://www.surreypolice.ca/news-events/news/sps-police-vehicle-deployment-begins These SPS Ford Explorers are white with areas of dark blue and gold trim, giving them a modern look and feel. Unfortunately somebody did not consider how it would look with the doors open and the passenger front door of these vehicles is emblazoned with "Surrey ICE." Not to worry, the SPS does not have an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) component to their police force. What has not been revealed by the RCMP is that they now have new all black police vehicles with "subdued" graphics that are part of a nationwide rebranding effort. I saw one of these Chevy Tahoes in Richmond last week and quickly stopped for a look. The officer told me that the white SUVs were going to eventually be replaced with these new stealthy vehicles, with the graphics remaining the same but the colours removed. Keep an eye out for the first one that appears in White Rock, which still uses the RCMP as their POJ.
Naturally yours,
Don Pitcairn
I wish to acknowledge we live, work and play on the traditional lands of the Semiahmoo People.
Local News
October 07, 2025
Monday White Rock Council Recap ....coming later this morning
Free outdoor skating rink coming to Surrey Civic Plaza
Residents and visitors can lace up for free outdoor skating this winter at the new 4,000-square-foot rink at Surrey Civic Plaza. The rink will debut during the City’s Tree Lighting Festival on November 22–23 and operate for 12 weeks as a pilot project.
Skaters will find a welcoming atmosphere with food trucks, hot chocolate, comfortable seating, and on-site staff providing skate and helmet rentals and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
As a pilot, the rink will help the City evaluate programming, attendance, and economic benefits in support of Council’s broader City Centre activation strategy. Additional details, including hours and programming, will be shared in early November.
Another day in paradise, 28 C in the shade most of the day.
Police Investigate Shots Fired
Surrey Police Service (SPS) officers are investigating an overnight shots fired incident that has resulted in property damage to a South Surrey business.
At about 2:20 am on October 6, 2025, SPS Frontline officers responded to calls of possible shots fired outside a restaurant business located in the 2100 block King George Boulevard, Surrey. Upon arrival, SPS officers confirmed that damage to the exterior of the building had been caused by gun shots. The business was closed at the time, no staff were inside, and there were no reports of any injuries.
Officers remain on scene and will be examining the area for physical and digital evidence.
Anyone with information about this incident, or anyone who may have been in the area of 2100 King George Boulevard between 2:00 am and 2:30 am and witnessed the shots fired or suspicious activity, or has CCTV or dashcam footage, is asked to contact the SPS non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 and quote file number 25-85681 (SP) or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca .
October You Say?
The Surrey Naturists of South Surrey/White Rock were having a beautiful day yesterday afternoon in the clothing optional beach in Crescent Beach.
30 degrees Celsius in out of the wind.
The fine weather is predicted to last at least until mid week.
October 04, 2025
White Rock RCMP Investigating Stranger Assault
White Rock RCMP is investigating following the report of an assault and requesting anyone who has information to contact police.
On Thursday October 3, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., White Rock RCMP received a report of a Sexual Assault that occurred around the stairs located in the 14900-block of Prospect Avenue.
It was reported that around 10:00 a.m. the victim was punched and groped prior to the suspect fleeing southbound through the park. The victim sustained minor physical injuries.
The investigation is in the early stages and being led by White Rock RCMP General Investigation Section. Based on the initial information investigators believe that this was an unprovoked assault.
The Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS) attended the location where the incident occurred to process the scene. Investigators are in the area canvassing for witnesses and video.
The suspect is described as 30 to 40 year-old Caucasian man, approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a grey hoodie with the hood up, Khaki pants and white shoes.
“Given the violent nature of this assault, we are encouraging members of our community to exercise vigilance while our investigators work to identify and locate the suspect,” says, White Rock RCMP Detachment Commander, Staff Sergeant Rob Dixon.
Anyone who was in the area and has dash camera footage or CCTV from the area is asked to call the White Rock RCMP at 778-545-4800.
Thank you for Walking & Rolling with us!
We Walked, We Rolled, We Celebrated Community
Thanks to your generosity, we’be already raised $118,000 to support inclusive housing at Harmony.
You came together to walk, roll, and celebrate inclusion - and what an unforgettable day it was! The energy, joy, and sense of community at Walk & Roll for Harmony was truly inspiring. From the cheers at the starting line to the laughter and connection throughout the day, you showed what it means to come together for something meaningful.
Every contribution helps us move closer to a future where everyone belongs.
Keep an Eye Out for Lauren Simpson!
You’ll be seeing Lauren - one of Harmony’s future residents - featured across the community in bus bench ads, newspapers, and all the places that matter. Her story is at the heart of this campaign, and we’re proud to share it. Want to help us reach our goal?
Whether it’s a donation, a connection, or simply sharing our campaign on social media, every action counts. Together, we can make Harmony a reality.
From all of us at UNITI - thank you for walking and rolling with us.
October 02, 20925
Dogs On The Promenade
It’s October which means dogs are now permitted on-leash at the promenade!
When you visit the waterfront with your furry friend, ensure they are on a leash no longer than 2 metres, and don’t forget to clean up after them.
BC Housing, in partnership with the City of Surrey and Fraser Health, is proposing to build 260 new homes on two lots located in Semiahmoo Town Centre, at 15238 19th Avenue and 1880 152nd Street. This project is an important part of our continued effort to address and prevent homelessness in the community and improve access to health services, including mental health and substance-use services.
The mixed-use development would include:
· 200 affordable studio, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom homes (TBD)
· 40 supportive studio homes
· 20 studio homes with Complex Care Housing (CCH) services
BC Housing will design an attractive, welcoming building that fits into the local neighbourhood.
Drop-In Community Information Session
We are inviting neighbours, local businesses and other interested community members to join us for a drop-in community information session to learn more about this project.
Registration is not required but preferred for planning purposes.
Affordable rental housing
This building would provide 200 new rental homes for low- and moderate-income households in Surrey prioritizing seniors, people with disabilities and families. Residents would need to meet income and household size criteria and be able to live independently without on-site supports.
Supportive housing
The 40 supportive homes in this building would be studio apartments for local adults (19+) including seniors and people with disabilities or any others who need supports to maintain stable housing. All residents pay rent and sign program agreements. Typical supports include 24/7 staffing, meal programs, life skills and employment training and on-site wellness services, including referral pathways to substance-use treatment and recovery.
Complex Care Housing (CCH)
CCH offers a similar environment to supportive housing but with enhanced health, cultural, and social supports that are tailored to residents’ individual needs and goals. CCH residents are adults (19+) of all genders living with overlapping mental health and/or substance use challenges and other health needs. CCH residents can benefit from various supports to maintain stable housing. In CCH, Fraser Health will deliver on–site health services seven-days-a-week. These supports are available to residents for as long as they need.
Non-profit housing operator
BC Housing will select an experienced non-profit housing operator through a fair and open process to manage the entire building and provide support services to residents, including daily meals, life skills training, and social, cultural and recreational programs.
Stay in touch
BC Housing and the City of Surrey will continue to reach out to area neighbours with updates and keep lines of communication open throughout this project. We look forward to celebrating these new homes with the community.
Keep up to date about this project and view our Community FAQ by visiting letstalkhousingbc.ca/surrey-semiahmoo-town-centre or by scanning the QR code. Note: This webpage will be published on September 12, 2025.
If you have any questions about this proposed development or would like to be added to our contact list for future project updates, please email communityrelations@bchousing.org
Whale of a Time In Semiahmoo Bay
Submitted by SUZI LORI
I wanna give you guys a little update on our whale, who has now officially been in our bay for 13 straight days. It was first seen the morning of Sept 19th off west beach, and again that evening by a group of paddle-boarders, myself included, and it has basically been seen every single day since, Friday Sept 19th to yesterday, October 1st.
Today (Thursday ) will officially be two weeks of it feeding in our bay.
The obvious speculation was that it was a gray whale, who know our bay well from frequenting here in the spring and who was likely fueling up for a few days before the big migration south. Also to note, researchers in the Salish Sea have confirmed that not all of our gray whale population is migrating, some are staying back here now in the winter. So.. okay maybe this was a gray whale who was not going to migrate and just stay here and eat? The bait balls of fish out in the bay right now are huge!! It’s a feast out there.
A little back story about me, I’m obsessed with whales. I’ve spent time with easily over 100+ humpbacks, I have their swimming pattern, their feeding pattern, their body shape and size, their blow, quite literally everything about them memorized and engraved in my brain- they are my favorite animal in the entire world. Immediately to me, this whale was not a humpback. It’s not doing anything that humpbacks do or that I’ve ever seen in my time with humpbacks. By about day two of seeing this thing I had narrowed it down that it wasn’t a humpback. By about day 3-4 I started highly questioning if this thing was even a gray whale. I’ve spent time with about 20 gray whales now in the last few years, from the two who frequent our bay here in Semiahmoo (CRC-2383 and CRC-2557), to ones that frequent off of Victoria, to “Little Patch” who spent a lot of time this spring off West Vancouver, to lots of gray whales out off Tofino. I have videos and photos of them all.
This whale in our bay certainly is not surfacing, swimming or feeding like a gray whale.
I remember seeing two different posts from September 15th just south of our bay by the San Juan Islands in the U.S., they spotted and photographed a fin whale.. the rare, endangered, second largest whale in the world.
I thought to myself.. could this be??? But I tried not to let my mind wander there. Fin whales generally live very far offshore and aren’t spotted over here often.
But one was.. a few days before this whale arrived.
I immersed myself into learning everything there is to learn about fin whales, I stay up late at night obsessing, reading research papers about them and watching footage of them. Could this be? Could this actually be a fin whale? I allowed myself add a fin whale into my official list of suspicions as to what this whale could be.
Several whale experts are now starting to think this may actually be the fin whale. Again, we don’t know for sure because it’s so elusive, incredibly hard to photograph or video..
If anyone has videos/photos of this whale’s body coming out of the water, please send them over.
Pier lighting applications are now open for 2026, and community non-profit groups are invited to submit their requests from October 1 to November 30, 2025.
The Pier features coloured lights that enhances the beauty of the waterfront and celebrates annual occasions and/or builds awareness for registered not-for profit (NPO) causes that are important to the White Rock community and its visitors.
Please note: Applicants will be notified in January if their application has been approved. Applications will only be accepted during the designated intake period. Requests submitted outside of October 1 to November 30, 2025, will not be considered.
September 29, 2025
Congratulations
SUSAN BAINS and ANTHONY MANNING Saturday evening were elected to the two vacant seats on White Rock Council. It will be a one year term for the two new councillors.,
The province wider general election for the next four year term occurs in October 2026.
The two newly elected council members will be officially sworn in and take their seats at the council table Monday October 20, 2025 @ 4 P.M.,
ICEMAKER TOURNAMENT is back at Softball City! October 10–12
Don’t miss the action—register now! https://loom.ly/VfvD9ro
On behalf of Read Surrey White Rock, we’d like to ask for your help in supporting and spreading the word about theRaise-a-Reader campaign!
This campaign was created by the Vancouver Sun to support family literacy across BC. Funds raised help sustain family literacy programs right here in Surrey and White Rock.
If you’d like to make a difference, donations can be directed to our community by clicking [here], and under “Fund*,” scroll down to RAR Lower Mainland – Surrey.
Please also feel free to share this information with your networks — and thank you in advance for your support of family literacy!
Tomorrow In THE SUN
This week gets rockin on the deck at NICOY WYND Friday night with the classic sounding CHRIS THROFNLEY BAND.
, Dinner and dancing and perhaps a little drinking.
https://loom.ly/VfvD9ro 
