Amherstburg seeks public input on police proposal

Amherstburg is seeking public input into a Windsor Police Services proposal that could save the town almost $600,000 a year.

In addition to the annual operating cost savings, an estimated $3.9 million in post-retirement costs for employee benefits would no longer be Amherstburg’s responsibility as they would be absorbed by Windsor if the town goes ahead with the deal, according to Amherstburg CAO John Miceli.

Miceli reviewed Windsor’s bid to take over policing duties, which projected an average annual savings of $839,086. But his assessment of the submission found a number of overlapping or additional costs as well as additional grant and provincial offences revenue not included that reduced the estimated savings.

“A reconciliation of the WPS to the (Amherstburg Police Service) model suggests an actual annual average savings of $567,802,” Miceli told town council.

The town would continue to be responsible for dispatching costs and utilities and maintenance for its Sandwich Street police station.

No severance costs would be incurred because all staff would join the Windsor service.

Windsor was the only police service to provide a proposal. Both the Ontario Provincial Police and LaSalle Police declined to provide a bid.

The town’s request for proposal was based on providing the same level of service that it has currently.

Miceli also pointed out potential changes to provincial legislation that will require municipalities to assume responsibility for waterway policing. Bill 175, as it’s known, has received first reading in the legislature.

“Should Bill 175 be adopted it will have significant cost implications to the town as it will require additional resources and potentially staff,” he said in his report. “This cost will be avoided should the town elect to move forward with the WPS (Windsor police) proposal.”

Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said it’s a big decision for the town.

“I don’t want people to think this is just something that we’re going to try out,” DiCarlo said. “If we commit to this, then we’re committed.”

He is encouraging residents to attend a meeting and hear more about the report.

The town’s joint police advisory committee recommended moving forward with community consultation.

Public meetings are slated for Jan. 17, 18, 25 and 27. They will be held at various locations across the town. Times are to be announced.

It is expected the committee will bring a recommendation to council in February.