Amherstburg's police chief is flattered so many people have signed a petition to keep the local force, but says it won't be up to him.
Resident Darlene Meloche presented a petition with almost 1,200 signatures to the town council Monday night. She says it's hard enough to get a job in Amherstburg, and the local service does a good job.
Councillors are exploring the option of partnering with Windsor and LaSalle to create a regional police force. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo has said the exploration is just due diligence in a town working to reduce a $40-million debt.
Chief Tim Berthiaume admits the morale of the force is suffering. "The officers aren't really sure where they will be in the next year or two. It's a little upsetting for them, but we're getting through it." He says it's too early to say how adopting a regional service will affect his officers.
Berthiaume also says he supports the council. "It's council's decision as to who provides policing services for the community and we'll respect any decision that they make."