Mike Starchuk

Mike Starchuk has spent nearly his entire life in Surrey — serving, protecting, and championing the people who call the city home. From decades as a first responder, to years in elected office, Mike has dedicated his career to public service, and to ensuring Surrey is a safe, vibrant, and thriving community.

Mike Starchuk - Mayoral candidate for Imagine Surrey - a new civic slate for Surrey. Imagine Surrey underscores a shared commitment to fostering growth, engagement, and positive change in Surrey. Imagine Surrey will bring together a dedicated group committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs and aspirations of Surrey's residents and those who work here. - ImagineSurrey.caMike retired as Surrey Fire Services’ Chief Fire Prevention Officer in 2014 after 32 years of service as a first responder, firefighter, and public safety leader. His decades on the frontlines have given him a firsthand understanding of the complex challenges facing Surrey — and what the community needs to feel safe, supported, and heard.

At the Surrey Fire Fighters Association, Mike championed health and safety initiatives locally and provincially. He is a founding member of the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society, now one of Surrey’s leading charities. Mike has also personally funded bursaries at three Surrey high schools, believing strongly in supporting young people as they pursue their goals.

Mike’s advocacy extends provincewide through his work with the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association, where he stood up for firefighters facing work-related cancers and occupational injuries. Following his retirement, Mike was named an honorary member of the organization for his years of dedication.

His service and ongoing dedication to the City of Surrey have been recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013) and King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024).

Mike was first elected to Surrey City Council in 2014. During his term, he chaired the Agriculture, Environmental, and Diversity Advisory Committees, and co-chaired the Seniors Advisory Committee. In these roles, he helped launch new farm-to-table initiatives that showcased the richness of Surrey’s Agricultural Land Reserve and strengthened local food connections.