Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released the following statement regarding Surrey’s transition to the Surrey Police Service (SPS):

“Today, I am announcing the appointment of Mike Serr as the administrator of the Surrey Police Board to assume the functions of the board to assist with Surrey’s transition to the SPS. All members of the Surrey Police Board have been suspended and they will resume their roles when the administrator’s appointment concludes.

“This appointment was made under Section 8 of the Police Amendment Act, 2023, after careful consideration of the work by the Surrey Police Board, which has been limited due to the lack of progress from the City of Surrey in advancing the police model transition to the SPS.

“This need was identified by Jessica McDonald as the strategic implementation adviser in the course of her work on the transition and numerous meetings with key parties, subject matter experts and stakeholders.

“I want to personally thank each member of the board for volunteering their time and for their dedication and commitment, while undertaking this challenging work to date. I know the Surrey Police Board and each board member has done their best through what has been unique, challenging and complicated circumstances. I look forward to their continued work and their service to the people of Surrey once an administrator is no longer needed.”

“British Columbians need to know that when they call the police, help will come. In July, I determined that the City of Surrey should complete the transition to the SPS.

“By appointing Mike Serr as administrator for the Surrey Police Board, I am taking action to help move forward the transition to completion.”

Serr’s biography follows as a backgrounder.