The City of Surrey will review safety measures related to public events here in the wake of Saturday's Lapu Lapu event attack where 11 people were killed and many more were injured after an SUV was driven into a crowd of celebrants in Vancouver.
Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder and more charges are expected.
Councillor Harry Bains asked city staff on Monday to report on what steps city hall is taking or could be taking to ensure event attendees in Surrey "are safe from vehicles."
"Specifically I'd like staff to provide recommendations on how we can ensure that unauthorized vehicles absolutely cannot enter our streets when events are being held including in those situations where an individual intentionally attempts to cause harm," Bains said, with council then voting to support his motion.
Councillor Rob Stutt remarked that Bain's comments "cannot be understated. Unfortunately we've learned that tragedy knows no boundaries. Again, given the number of public events Surrey hosts, public safety measures should be on top of mind every time. I would concur that protocol must be established between all agencies, public safety agencies, and again to establish protocols that have to be met before any permits are issued for public events."
Mayor Brenda Locke noted at the outset of Monday's council meeting that all flags will fly at half-mast at all civic buildings until further notice. The civic plaza was also lit up in the colour of Philippines flag in the wake of the Lapu Lapu Day killings in Vancouver.
