Contract signed: Windsor police taking over service in Amherstburg for next 20 years

The Windsor Police Service hassigned a 20-year contract to officially take over law enforcement in the Town of Amherstburg, starting January 2019.

"We are confident this contract will provide the residents of Amherstburg an enhanced level of service as well as significant financial savings," saidAmherstburgMayor Aldo DiCarlo.

As part of the deal,Amherstburg will have access to the following specialized units in Windsor:

• Major crimes branch
• Police canine support
• Tactical emergency response
• Explosive disposal support
• Forensic identification and crime scene expertise
• Collision expertise
• Drugs and guns unit expertise

It's estimated the move will save Amherstburg more than $500,000 annually and Windsor will save an estimated $100,000 to $200,000 each year, according to Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.

Not everyone is happy with the deal, however.

Glenn Swinton, who is running against Dicarlo for the mayoral seat inAmherstburg, said he intends to abandon the deal if elected.

"The taxpayers want to know, with only 10 days before the election, will it be the intention of Mayor Dilkens to hold Amherstburg by the throat on day 12?" said Swinton.