SOON TO BE KNOWN AS 'MAYOR OF MARIJUANA'

I wish Mayor McCallum the best of luck promoting Surrey to the world for
the 2010 Olympics. Given the current pace of inaction and lost ground, half
or more of the city will be owned by marijuana gangs.

He will be known world-wide as the "Mayor of Marijuana," if he is still
here. Eight years ago, the city needed to act on this trend and didn't. Now
police can only deal with 10 per cent of the operations and lose more
ground every day. What will another seven years bring?

In his 2003 state of the city address, Mayor McCallum stated he and council
have "worked with relentless determination to establish Surrey as the
number one city in which to live, work and raise a family." This is
certainly true for drug dealers who flock here to live, work and raise crops.

His comments have been conspicuously sparse on this issue. His efforts in
Whalley were greatly needed but it's time to multi-task, Mr. Mayor! The
rest of the city needs you too.

Like you said "If we all work together we will make our streets safer, our
local job market stronger and the quality of life in Surrey second to none."

Well, the drug dealers are safe from prosecution, marijuana job market has
exploded and the quality of B.C. "bud" is world renowned. So, when are you
going to start "working together" with those trying to make your
mis-statement true?

No more excuses, Mr. Mayor, the 14 in and around my neighbourhood are
testimony to your inaction. What's your plan? You were put into office to
make these tough decisions. It's time to earn your pay.

I hope the citizens of Surrey will call, fax and e-mail city hall and ask
that very question.

Rob Wilton

Surrey