An historic milestone Friday at Windsor Police headquarters as a contract was signed to provide policing to the town of Amherstburg.
The 20-year contract, signed by Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens and Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, was already approved by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission in July 2018.
Dozens of committees have been working behind the scenes to make it a seamless transition.
Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo says the deal will mean better policing for town residents at a lower cost as it is estimated to save the town $570,000/year.
"Most importantly from a community perspective, how do we build trust, it is one call at a time?" says Windsor Police Chief Al Frederick. "Every interaction with the Amherstburg community, once Windsor takes over policing, we are going to deliver."
The tactical teams, internet capabilities, explosive disposal unit, forensic specialists, drugs and guns unit expertise will all be available to the town which Chief Frederick says 'is a huge enhancement."
"Got to say I feel some relief in finally signing this contract today," says Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo. "I hope it provides some closure and the beginning of a good relationship to the city of Windsor," says DiCarlo.
As for the savings, DiCarlo says the money has not been earmarked for any specific item although there have been some discussions about spending it on roads or infrastructure or putting it in reserves.
Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens sign a 20 year police contract. October 12, 2018 (Photo by AM800's Teresinha Medeiros)
Mayor Drew Dilkens hopes this sets the example for other municipalities.
"This to my mind, is the potential to be the first step towards a regional policing model in Essex County, something that ultimately benefits all of the residents in Essex County," says Dilkens.
Chief Frederick says Amherstburg residents will continue to see the same officers when they need help.
"Any officer that wishes to stay in Amherstburg, will have that option, definitely," says Chief Frederick. "If they want to come to Windsor and participate in our promotional opportunities or transfer into other positions within policing, they will have that option too but that is completely up to the officer."
The Amherstburg police headquarters will remain open in town and officers will dispatch from that location.
Windsor police was the only police service that submitted a bid to the town to take over policing.