It's expected to be a lively debate at Amherstburg Town Council Monday night as councillors consider a proposal to have the Windsor Police Service take over policing.
Windsor police Chief Al Frederick said he will not be there, but he is aware of the passionate views on both sides of the issue. The chief is ultimately confident the proposal will move forward.
"We are looking forward to it, one way or another," said Frederick. "We've put a lot of effort and resources into preparing our proposal. We believe it's very fair, and it's going to improve the level of service in the town of Amherstburg."
The plan was introduced to town council in December of last year. It consists of Windsor police absorbing all patrol and investigative duties of the Amherstburg police department. It would eliminate the positions of chief and deputy chief, but the two people holding those positions would join the administration of WPS. Current Amherstburg police officers would stay on and continue working for Windsor.
Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said two weeks ago that the town had completed its reports with the administration, as well as the joint police advisory committee. DiCarlo expected the plan to be approved, rejected or deferred Monday night.
Frederick said Amherstburg would see improved service, but Windsor residents would also benefit from this proposal.
"Our residents would not subsidise this proposal," said Frederick. "I don't think that will happen. I believe that there will be a financial benefit to the city of Windsor going forward. The second thing that I focused on was that they'll get a superior level of service than they currently have, at a reduced rate."
The town estimates the plan would save about $567,000 a year.