As a way to get into the good books of Surrey’s large secondary-suite owning voters, the NDP MLA who is hoping to become the first South Asian mayor in Surrey is proposing to give amnesty to the mortgage-helper suites to attack the housing shortage in a growing city like Surrey. “There are too many people in Surrey living in fear that they could be evicted tomorrow with no place to go,” said Sims. “Their homes are not safe and secure, governed by safety standards, landlord tenant obligations and other protections.”

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff

SURREY – As a way to get into the good books of Surrey’s large secondary-suite owning voters, the NDP MLA who is hoping to become the first South Asian mayor in Surrey is proposing to give amnesty to the mortgage-helper suites to attack the housing shortage in a growing city like Surrey.

Surrey Forward candidate Jinny “Jogindro” Sims said Surrey like much of the Lower Mainland of British Columbia is suffering from a housing crisis. 

“To ensure adequate, safe housing supply for all Surrey residents, Surrey Forward will create a Secondary Suites Amnesty program,” she said.

The Surrey Forward Amnesty program is comprised of three steps, each designed to provide safe and secure housing without exacerbating the housing crisis:

1.     Owners with illegal secondary suites will be able to register their suites within a one-year period.

2.     Registered owners will then have three years to update their suites and bring them in line with British Columbia and Surrey guidelines.

3.     During this period, no fines will be levied against suite owners and tenants will be ensured a safe and secure home.

 “There are too many people in Surrey living in fear that they could be evicted tomorrow with no place to go,” said Sims. “Their homes are not safe and secure, governed by safety standards, landlord tenant obligations and other protections.”

 “In addition, these suites are flying under the radar municipally. The proper fees and taxes are not paid, meaning that everyone else must pay more. In the interest of fairness, in the interest of ensuring safe and affordable housing, we must take action.”

 “There is no cost greater than the cost of housing for Surrey families. It is time to ensure a safe and secure supply of housing at affordable amounts for those who live and work in our great city.”