Another Surrey police board director has resigned following a tumultuous week that saw the city’s police chief removed from his position and the board chair step down.
James Carwana Steps Down
James Carwana, who served on the Surrey Police Board since its establishment, resigned Thursday morning, according to Jason Kuzminski, the board's executive director. Carwana’s departure comes just days after board chair Harley Chappell resigned on June 2.
Reasons for Resignation Unclear
The specific reasons for Carwana’s resignation remain unknown, but sources close to the situation indicate that he was the sole vote against terminating Chief Norm Lipinski during a special police board meeting the previous Friday.
Carwana, a long-time labour and employment lawyer, was appointed to the municipal board by the B.C. government in 2020. He practiced labour, employment, and administrative law in Vancouver for over 25 years, according to the Surrey Police Board website. He also served as a mediator, arbitrator, and previously as vice chair at the B.C. Labour Relations Board.
New Board Chair Appointed
Following Chappell’s resignation, Rob Stutt has taken over as chair. Stutt, who was previously vice chair, is the city council representative on the police board and a former Surrey RCMP officer. He is also part of Mayor Brenda Locke’s Surrey Connect slate.
Board director Hanne Madsen confirmed the leadership change to Postmedia.
This story continues to develop. More details will be provided as they become available.
