City Council Appoints Surrey’s First Ethics Commissioner

The City of Surrey is the first municipality in British Columbia to establish the position of Ethics Commissioner.

After a nationwide search for a suitable candidate and the receipt of applications from over 30 well qualified candidates, Council has unanimously appointed Reece Harding as the City of Surrey’s first Ethics Commissioner.

Mr. Harding is a partner with Young, Anderson and has extensive experience working with local governments on an operational, administrative, and elected level.

He has appeared on behalf of local governments in every level of court in Canada. “While there was no shortage of qualified candidates for the position of Ethics Commissioner, Reece Harding’s comprehensive experience in municipal law, advising elected officials on responsible conduct, and conflict resolution and his high standing among his peers makes him the right person to fill this important role at the City of Surrey,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “On behalf of Council, I want to congratulate Reece as he begins his new duties as Ethics Commissioner. I would also like to thank the Ethics Selection Committee for their diligence and hard work in assisting the City in the recruiting process.”

As an independent officer, the role of the Ethics Commissioner role is to advise and assist Council on how best to enhance open, transparent, and accountable governance. The mandate of the Ethics Commissioner’s also includes the authority to investigate complaints and make disciplinary recommendations to Council.

Photo courtesy of City of Surrey.