Surrey’s new city hall officially opens today

Amid much controversy about overspending on the glitzy new structure, Surrey is holding a large celebration today to officially open the new city hall.

The grand opening includes musical performances, family friendly activities and a farmer’s market.

The building in the heart of Whalley cost $97 million to build.

Critics say the building is a waste of taxpayers’ money and that the funds could have been better spent on recreation and arts facilities.

Some are also questioning how costs ballooned so high in the first place.

Council had its first meeting in the new building on March 31st.

Current Mayor Dianne Watts says the city borrowed $97 million and amortized that over 25 years. “The financial plan is to pay that off in 10,” she says.

~With files from Amy Judd