Surrey’s Narima Dela Cruz has a big decision to make.

She was a contender in last year’s B.C. NDP nomination contest in Surrey-Tynehead, which was won by Avtar Bains. (B.C. Liberal candidate and now minister of advanced education Amrik Virk prevailed in the provincial election that followed.)

Dela Cruz, a realtor, is looking at running for city council in the fall.

“A lot of reading, a lot of learning, because I don’t want to be into something that I’m not ready,” Dela Cruz told the Straight by phone today (May 29) about where she’s at.

Dela Cruz also said that she’s talking to a lot of people.

“I’m planning,” she said about her intentions for the November 15 municipal election.

She’s watching the two major civic parties in Surrey.

According to her, there is some uncertainty about the future of the ruling Surrey First. In April, Mayor Dianne Watts announced that she’s not running for another term. Prior to that, councillor Barinder Rasode broke ranks with Surrey First following disagreements with the party.

As for the Surrey Matters Voters Association, which replaced the Surrey Civic Coalition, Dela Cruz noted that there are also questions about its prospects. The civic organization is seen by many as an NDP ally.

For now, Dela Cruz is intent on exploring her options.

“I couldn’t say anything definite,” she said about her plans.

Dela Cruz suggested that things from her end may start looking clearer after June 8. That’s when the Surrey Philippine Independence Day Society will hold its annual celebration of Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule. She’s president of the nonprofit.

This year’s Philippine independence day celebration in Surrey will be held at the Tephidaram Temple Grounds (10450 140 Street). Details are on Facebook.