Surrey tax dollars, Surrey jobs: a local hiring priority for contracts, and a new youth scholarship

Honveer Singh Randhawa, the Conservative Party of Surrey's candidate for Mayor, together with his team of council candidates, has announced a new economic and youth development initiative designed to keep more City spending working for Surrey businesses, Surrey workers, and Surrey youth.

Under the "Surrey Jobs, Surrey Youth, Surrey Business" initiative, a Randhawa administration will prioritize Surrey-based businesses when awarding eligible seasonal and community service contracts, while encouraging participating contractors to hire Surrey youth between the ages of 16 and 24.

The initiative rests on a simple principle: Surrey taxpayer dollars should help create opportunities for Surrey residents whenever possible.

"Every year, millions of dollars leave our community through contracts and services," said Randhawa. "As Mayor, I want more of those dollars staying here in Surrey, supporting local businesses, creating local jobs, and providing valuable work experience for our young people."

The City will explore procurement policies that encourage qualified Surrey-based businesses to take part in seasonal work such as landscaping, beautification projects, park maintenance, community event support, environmental initiatives, and other municipal services. Participating businesses will be encouraged to offer employment, apprenticeships, mentorship, and seasonal work experience for Surrey youth.

"When local businesses grow, our local economy grows. When young people gain work experience, they build confidence, develop skills, and prepare for successful careers. This initiative creates benefits for businesses, families, youth, and taxpayers alike."

Randhawa also announced the creation of the Mayor's Youth Excellence Scholarship Program, recognizing Surrey youth who achieve outstanding success while representing their community on provincial, national, or international stages.

Under the program, Surrey youth who excel in sports, arts, culture, academics, leadership, skilled trades, or other recognized fields, and reach national-level competition or achievement in Canada, may be eligible for:

• A Mayor's Certificate of Achievement from the City of Surrey.

• Public recognition at an annual civic awards ceremony.

• A scholarship to support their continued development and education.

The scholarships are meant to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and discipline shown by Surrey's most accomplished young people.

"Whether a young person represents Surrey in athletics, music, dance, cultural performance, science, innovation, academics, or community leadership, we want them to know their city is proud of them," said Randhawa. "These young ambassadors bring honour to Surrey through their achievements. They deserve recognition and support as they continue pursuing excellence."

Randhawa said both initiatives are part of a broader vision to strengthen Surrey's economy, support local businesses, and invest in the next generation of leaders.

"My vision is straightforward: Surrey tax dollars should create Surrey jobs. Surrey businesses should have opportunities to succeed. Surrey youth should have opportunities to work, learn, and achieve. When we invest in our young people and support our local businesses, we build a stronger and more prosperous city for everyone."

Keeping Surrey tax dollars in Surrey, supporting Surrey businesses, and creating opportunities for Surrey youth are among the top priorities of the Conservative Party of Surrey. Every mandate this team has published is on the mandates page.

Surrey residents can put these commitments in place by voting for Honveer Singh Randhawa for Mayor, and for the full Conservative Party of Surrey council team, on October 17, 2026.

Media enquiries: info@conservativeassociation.ca