The state of heritage preservation in Surrey came to a boiling point last month, when two homes with historical value – the Currie House and the Henry Parr House – were torn down by the city.

The decision to document and then destroy the historically important buildings, which Surrey’s own heritage advisory commission had worked years to save, was made behind closed doors.

It was a blatant disregard for the dedicated members of the commission who champion a worthy cause: Saving fast-growing Surrey’s dwindling heritage sites.

Even more insulting? The chair of the city-appointed commission – Coun. Barbara Steele – voted for the destruction of the Currie and Parr homes, without any communication with the very commission she heads up. (Ironically, had Steele opposed the destruction, the homes would still be standing as the proposal would have been defeated on a tie, even with pro-heritage Coun. Bob Bose absent).

Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts and Couns. Mary Martin and Judy Villeneuve were opposed to the demolition, with Villeneuve reasoning “a lot of people would be upset.”

No kidding.

But the homes are now gone, and their loss has far-reaching ramifications.

If no restitution on the part of the city is made, what message does this send to developers – many of whom have poured millions of dollars into maintaining the historical integrity of new projects? Bulldoze first and apologize later?

It’s a thorny question that Steele will need to take up with the HAC – while there still is one. There is talk of commissioners forming a new heritage society, a group whose role wouldn’t be limited by council and whose members could function as true advocates for heritage.

With so many local citizens passionate about preserving and promoting Surrey’s past, this is a good idea. The city needs a new approach to showcasing its rich history and a fresh vision could include resurrecting the idea of creating a heritage village, launching a fundraising foundation, or lobbying for parcels of city land to be set aside for relocated heritage homes.

Last month, a part of the city’s history was forever lost, but with heritage preservation now in the spotlight, perhaps the demise of the Currie and Parr homes won’t be in vain.