Briefing on South Surrey—White Rock electoral district

South Surrey—White Rock is a federal electoral district located in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is situated in the southern region of the city of Surrey and the city of White Rock. The district borders the United States to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Population centres

South Surrey—White Rock is a diverse region with a mix of urban and rural communities. The area is home to several significant urban centres, including:

• White Rock: known for its beaches, seaside promenade, and pier, White Rock is a popular tourist destination and a bustling community with a vibrant arts scene.
• South Surrey: a growing suburban community with many parks and recreational areas, South Surrey is home to a mix of young families and retirees.

Issues and events

Between 2019 and 2022, a number of local issues and events captured the attention of residents in South Surrey—White Rock. These included:

• Development and land use: The region's rapid population growth has led to contentious discussions about development and land use, particularly around issues like affordability, housing density, and environmental impact.
• Rail relocation: In 2021, the federal government announced plans to relocate a portion of the rail line that runs through the district. This project has been controversial, with some residents in favour of improving safety and reducing train noise, and others concerned about the economic impact on local businesses.
• Beach erosion: Due to rising sea levels and an increase in storm activity, several beaches in White Rock have experienced significant erosion in recent years. This has led to calls for action from local officials and community members.

Economy

South Surrey—White Rock is home to a variety of businesses and industries, including technology, healthcare, tourism, and retail. Some of the region's major employers include:

• Peace Arch Hospital: a leading healthcare provider that serves the area, employing over 1,500 people.
• Semiahmoo Shopping Centre: a large shopping mall that attracts shoppers from all over the region, with anchor tenants like Walmart, Save-On-Foods, and Winners.
• Technology companies: South Surrey—White Rock is home to a number of tech firms, including Fatigue Science, which produces wearable technology for monitoring sleep and recovery.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the region's economy, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat in the face of shutdowns and reduced consumer spending. However, the area has shown resilience, with many businesses pivoting to new models and adapting to the changing landscape.

Important landmarks

South Surrey—White Rock is known for its natural beauty, with many popular landmarks and attractions, including:

• White Rock Beach: a picturesque beach known for its stunning views of the ocean and the iconic white rock that gives the community its name.
• Crescent Beach: a quiet, family-friendly beach community that offers year-round recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Semiahmoo Park: a large, multi-use park that encompasses beachfront, forested areas, and picnic sites.

Other notable landmarks in the area include the Peace Arch, a historic monument and park that straddles the Canada-US border, and the Surrey Arts Centre, a hub for arts and culture that hosts events and exhibitions year-round.

Arts and culture

South Surrey—White Rock is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with many notable events and institutions, including:

• Surrey International Writers' Conference: an annual gathering of writers, editors, and publishers that attracts participants from around the world.
• White Rock Museum & Archives: a local museum that celebrates the history and culture of the community, with exhibits on important local events like the Semiahmoo First Nation and the Elgin Creamery.
• Coastal Jazz and Blues Society: a non-profit organization that promotes jazz and blues music through live performances, workshops, and festivals.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election in Canada, some of the key issues in South Surrey—White Rock included:

• Housing affordability: as housing prices continue to rise in the region, many residents are struggling to find affordable places to live.
• Infrastructure improvements: the proposed rail relocation project and other infrastructure improvements were top of mind for many voters, who were concerned about balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability.
• Healthcare access: with Peace Arch Hospital located in the riding, access to quality healthcare was an important issue for many voters.

Community organizations

South Surrey—White Rock is home to many community organizations that provide support and services to residents. Some of the most notable include:

• Sources Community Resource Centres: a non-profit organization that offers a wide range of services, including food banks, counselling, and volunteer opportunities.
• The Surrey Food Bank: a charitable organization that provides food and resources to families and individuals in need.
• Semiahmoo House Society: a non-profit that works to support individuals with developmental disabilities through a range of programs and services.

Multicultural groups

South Surrey—White Rock is a diverse community with many cultural groups represented. According to the 2016 census, the top three ethnic groups in the district were English, Scottish, and Chinese. Other significant groups included South Asian, Filipino, and German. The community celebrates this diversity through events like the annual Fusion Festival, which showcases food, music, and dance from different cultures around the world.

Overall, South Surrey—White Rock is a dynamic and diverse electoral district with a rich cultural and natural heritage. With a growing population, a thriving arts scene, and a strong sense of community, it is an area that continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its residents.