We asked each civic election candidate in our readership area – Surrey, White Rock and Delta – to submit a written response to one question, in 100 words or less: Why should people vote for you?
Their responses, unedited except for length, are published in our Civic Election tab. Below, Surrey's mayoral candidates respond:
John Wolanski
“Never look down on a man unless you’re giving him a hand up.†- Reverend Jesse Jackson
There are a lot of people struggling in our city, just to survive.
The working man, the small businessman needs help, and policies to address this must be implemented.
Opportunities for all, not just a few, a fair deal for all. I want to create a civic society based on kindness and respect.
That’s why I want to be mayor.
Vikram Bajwa
In 2011 there was less than 25 per cent voter polling, we ended up with 87 per cent residents feeling unsafe.
You as resident need to vote in 2014, to elect a leader who can reverse the per cent and make Surrey a vibrant multiculture capital of Canada, not a crime capital or auto theft capital.
Surrey First failed in public safety, Surrey Safe record is open and One Surrey is an opportunist.
Vote Independent Mayor. Vote Independent Council. Take back Surrey.
John Edwards
Demonstrated leadership and management experience as:
Past President and board member of Rotary Club of Surrey, Recipient of a Rotary Paul Harris Fellowship for excellence in community engagement with several city organizations including, Surrey Food Bank, City of Surrey, Fraser Health, Community Living BC, Fire Department, Down’s Syndrome Societies, People With Disabilities and employment access projects.
Several years of senior management experience in some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies.
Healthcare/Business background with extensive experience negotiating with ministries of health in all Canadian provinces, US State Departments of Health, Department of Indian Affairs, Australia, The Middle East and the UK.
Doug McCallum (Safe Surrey Coalition)
I believe that Surrey needs to get back to simple government that provides good services for residents within a responsible fiscal framework.
Public safety is at the top of my priority list. Surrey immediately requires more RCMP and bylaw officers for an increased presence on our streets.
Greater public transparency and investment in tackling the root causes of crime are also necessary.
Surrey needs a strong champion for transportation investment from the federal and provincial governments, and an end to wasteful spending at City Hall.
As the former Mayor, I will bring experience and leadership back to the city.
Barinder Rasode (Incumbent councillor, One Surrey)
One Surrey will make our city the safest in Canada. Our plan was developed by Canada’s longest-serving Police Chief and can be implemented immediately.
We’ll hire more police, and 200 Community Safety Officers, who’ll be working by 2015 or we’ll take a 10 per cent pay cut.
We’ll tackle the root causes of crime, and help those with mental health and addiction issues.
We’ll cut spending by 1 per cent, because we can’t keep raising taxes and incurring debt to cover costs.
We’ll manage growth responsibly by launching a new program for development and environmental protection.
And, we’ll reduce congestion and connect all town centres with rapid transit. Working together, we can build a safe and prosperous city: OneSurrey.ca.
Grant Rice
I have appeared before council for twelve years, advocating for environmental protection, better transparency, and fiscal responsibility.
I was the president of a community association in Whalley for eight years, and I continue to offer advice and support to other organizations throughout Surrey. 
I’ve developed a profound understanding of the practises of Surrey’s numerous departments. 
I have management experience in the private, public and not for profit sectors.
My education includes a Bachelor of Commerce, and a Master of Urban Studies from SFU. 
My plan to protect and improve Surrey, now, and for future generations can be found at Grantrice.ca.
Linda Hepner (Incumbent councillor, Surrey First)
I’m running because while we have done a lot to make our city better, there’s still more to do.
I have a comprehensive, expert-led strategy to fight crime with 147 more police, a secure mental health facility and targeted programs for prolific offenders.
I’ll deliver light rail by 2018, and continue our success of balanced, inclusive growth.
A resident of Surrey for 29 years, I’ve served Surrey for 20 years in numerous positions including as Manager of Economic Development before being elected to Council in 2005.
I represent Surrey on the Metro Vancouver Board and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
To read about Surrey's council candidates click here.
To read about Surrey's school board candidates click here.
There are 52 voting locations across Surrey on Nov. 15, open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Surrey.ca/election2014 for a list of locations.