The head of the Surrey Police Service is back to chat about all things Surrey policing.
Norm Lipinski, the chief constable for the SPS, will address Cloverdale District Chamber of Commerce members and guests Feb. 18.
Scott Wheatley, the executive director for the Cloverdale Chamber, said it’s been two years since Lipinski was a guest at a Chamber luncheon.
“The last time we had the chief speak to members was April 2022,” Wheatley said. “Now that SPS is the police of jurisdiction in the city, it means the timing is great for his return and for an update.”
Like last time, when fireworks erupted at the luncheon, Wheatley said Lipinski doesn’t shy away from any topic.
“He is a great speaker and is willing to take tough questions,” Wheatley added. “I’m sure it will be a well-attended and interesting lunch.”
The last time Lipinski talked in Cloverdale he was asked to give us an update on the progress of the policing transition with a focus on Clayton, Cloverdale, and Campbell Heights.
After Lipinski’s remarks, there was a short Q&A that included some questions from the floor. That’s when the session became heated.
The meeting produced several fireworks as attendees got into emotionally-charged exchanges over the transition. The group Keep The RCMP In Surrey (KTRIS) faced off against against other guests as KTRIS members asked Lipinski some tough questions. Lipinski answered all and tried to keep the peace.
Wheatley, who had to step in and end the Q&A early last time, doesn't anticipate having to do that this time ‘round. He said he will run another Q&A "if there is time."
Lipinski joined the Surrey Police Service as chief constable in December 2020. Prior to that he served as a deputy chief constable for the Delta Police Department, was an assistant commissioner with the RCMP, and was deputy chief constable for the Edmonton Police Service.
The luncheon will be held Feb. 18 at 5 Star Catering, 5640 188th Street. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and food will be served at noon.
Chamber luncheons are open to anyone. Participants can register for the luncheon by visiting cloverdalechamber.ca and clicking on “events.”
