Support grows for public inquiry into Metro Vancouver

Support for a public inquiry into Metro Vancouver continues to grow as Premier David Eby says the regional district needs major reform.

He warned that the province could step in if the board fails to address ongoing governance issues.

Speaking Friday at a press conference, Eby said Metro Vancouver's current structure is no longer working.

"I fully support a restructuring of that organization," he declared. "There are too many board members and it is demonstrated to be ineffective at the purpose it was intended for."

Eby said he has been reluctant to intervene in Metro Vancouver's affairs, but suggested the province may have no choice if directors cannot resolve the problems themselves.

"If Metro Vancouver directors can't get this under control, then the province will have to step in," he said.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke also mentioned on Friday that more municipalities have backed Surrey's call for a public inquiry into Metro Vancouver.

In a statement, Locke said New Westminster, the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver have unanimously endorsed the request. Surrey said the four municipalities represent about one million residents, or roughly one-third of Metro Vancouver's population.

Locke said Surrey's concerns extend beyond the cost overruns at the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant. She said the city wants an inquiry into Metro Vancouver's governance, financial management, and decision-making.

Surrey has also questioned whether Metro Vancouver withheld key financial, engineering and environmental information from directors and whether it met its legal and regulatory obligations.

The city has formally raised those concerns with the province and continues to work with BC's Inspector of Municipalities.

"We remain committed to pursuing this matter in a transparent and responsible way, with the goal of strengthening accountability and public confidence in how Metro Vancouver is governed," Locke concluded.