Town should develop a transparent selection process regarding policing issue

As a concerned and engaged citizen, I am urging Amherstburg council to take immediate, transparent, and accountable action in developing a clear plan for the selection process of a new municipal police service. This issue directly affects the safety, identity, and financial priorities of our community, and the current lack of transparency and community input is deeply troubling. 

Specifically, I am asking council to develop and share a transparent selection process. Publicly outline the criteria, timeline, and steps involved in selecting the new municipal police service, identify who the decision-makers are and explain their roles in the process and commit to frequent updates and reports to the community to ensure decisions are made openly and fairly.

Include community input in the process. Create opportunities for meaningful public engagement, such as town halls, surveys, or open forums where residents can voice their concerns and priorities regarding policing in Amherstburg. Ensure this feedback has a direct impact on the decision-making process.

Consider the re-establishment of the Amherstburg Police Service. Explore the feasibility of reestablishing the Amherstburg Police Service, which once provided localized oversight and a stronger connection to the community. Conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis and compare its potential improvements in local accountability, identity, and policing outcomes to other options.

Prioritize accountability moving forward. Ensure that whichever policing model is chosen, clear mechanisms for oversight, regular audits, and performance reviews are established to maintain community trust. Commit to aligning the police budget and activities to the unique needs of Amherstburg residents.

Why this matters is because this decision will shape the future of safety, identity, and governance in Amherstburg — issues of vital importance to every resident. Council must act in a way that honors the community’s legacy and ensures the chosen policing solution reflects Amherstburg’ s unique values and priorities.

Sincerely,

—Frank Cleminson

Amherstburg

Town should develop a transparent selection process regarding policing issue