There’s a lot of work to be done to improve the quality of life for Surrey residents.
The second largest city in British Columbia received a ‘C’ grade from residents who were surveyed on the overall liveability of their municipality.
Residents listed crime and safety as the most pressing area that needs improvement, followed by transit, mental illness, addiction and community planning.
Surrey residents gave ‘D+’ grades to safety, housing and transportation (the survey’s definition of a ‘D’ grade is “below average performance, additional work is required). Survey respondents thought that none of the other areas (including education, health, economy and environment) deserved more than a ‘C’.
The report suggests several ways to improve the most poorly performing areas, such as increasing the number of police officers, increasing the minimum wage to a “living wage” and improving access to mental health services.
While the report revealed many areas that need improvement, the responses also showed that residents care deeply about their city, said Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade.
The Vital Signs report was commissioned by community foundation SurreyCares and the Surrey Board of Trade. Both organizations say they will draw on the results to shape future advocacy efforts, and are urging governments, charities and other groups to do the same.
@jenstden
