Amherstburg residents are speaking out about regional policing.
The idea of a regional force was thrown into the mix when Amherstburg's new council decided it needed to investigate ways to save money.
Mayor Aldo DiCarlo says switching to either a regional, or OPP model could save the town millions.
One resident spoke out against the idea at Monday night’s council meeting and she's not alone.
“Safety is my number one thing,” says resident Darlene Meloche. “Keep police, fire, crossing guards local. I always believe keep your safety local. I think we have a great police force now, and if it costs us a little bit more now, so be it."
Meloche has been circulating a petition since the regional policing conversation began a few months back.
So far, she says she's collected more than 1,000 signatures from people who want to keep the current police force. She presented it to council Monday night.
The town is currently trying to find ways to whittle down $46 million in debt.
DiCarlo says he's pleased to see such civic engagement.
“That means they're very happy with who we have,” says DiCarlo. “It's a win-win. If we keep our police force because people are that passionate, great. If we thinking we can find saving, and it helps the town out that eat, I think that's good too."
