Amherstburg Town Council has confirmed there will be a change in how policing is done within the next few years.
Following an in-camera meeting Monday evening, councillors accepted a resolution that was reached, ending patrols by Windsor police in Amherstburg.
Mayor Michael Prue said during the public session that followed, however, that the change won't happen right away.
"We have directed administration to formally advise the City of Windsor that the Town wishes to have discussions regarding the removal of the current contract, post-December 31, 2028," Prue said.
The announcement followed weeks of rumours in both municipalities concerning a possible change in the policing contract. Prue confirmed last week to WindsorNewsToday.ca that the City of Windsor was considering ending the arrangement, which began in 2019.
The contract, which must be renewed every five years, was extended last year.
Prue also said one option moving forward was to pair with the only other Windsor-Essex municipality with a police service.
"[We will] meet with the Town of LaSalle to discuss the potential of a partnership or contract for services with the Town and its police service, post-December 31, 2028," said Prue.
Other options discussed include the re-establishment of a police service in Amherstburg, having the OPP provide policing in the Town, and considering a regional police service.
Any change in policing would be subject to approval by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission (OCPC).
