Tow Service Policies and Procedure Review December 11, 2023
Tow Policies and Procedures • September 5, 2023 – Resolution directing the City Manager to review the City Code of Ordinances and any other policies or procedures currently in effect regarding tow service and to provide recommendations for further action related to these items
Current Situation • Chapter 18, Article 25 – Abandoned Property and Tow Service – Outlines tow rotation call list for emergency tows – The Director is authorized and directed to establish and implement a tow rotation call list to equitably distribute the business of towing to impound abandoned property – IPD uses this system to contact private towing firms performing emergency towing work at the request of the City.
City’s Tow Rotation Call List • City of Independence has established procedures and rules to regulate emergency towing service. – Requires compliance with the 22 Services and Procedures – Outlines 10 General Operating Rules
• 10 tow service companies allowed on list. • Tow service providers must complete the Tow Rotation Application and must agree to these Procedures as well as follow all Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations.
City Regulations for Other Tows • City does not have regulations governing other tows. – For example, private non-emergency tows or nonconsent tows
Staff Recommendation • Tow Rotation – Many cities in Missouri utilize tow rotation for abandoned vehicles and vehicles involved in an accident – Recommend updating language
• Other Tow Regulations – Recommend amending City Code to add regulations governing other tows.
Questions…