Broad and James Towing proposes fee hikes to Whitehall City Council for towing services

During the City Council meeting on May 7, 2025, in Whitehall, Ohio, significant discussions centered around the urgent need to adjust towing and impounding fees, a proposal presented by Jim Schreiner of Broad and James Towing. Schreiner highlighted that it has been a decade since the last fee increase in February 2015, and he emphasized that rising costs in the towing industry necessitate a reevaluation of these rates.

Schreiner pointed out that inflation and supply chain disruptions have dramatically increased operational costs for towing companies. For instance, he noted that the price of fuel has surged over 60%, while the cost of tires and insurance has risen by approximately 70% and 47%, respectively. He provided a detailed breakdown of proposed new rates, suggesting a tiered system based on vehicle weight: $207 for vehicles under 10,000 pounds, $400 for those between 10,001 and 26,000 pounds, and $500 for vehicles over 26,000 pounds, with corresponding daily storage fees. Additionally, he proposed an annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to keep pace with future expenses.

Schreiner also raised concerns about the current practice of allowing various towing companies from outside the area to operate within Whitehall. He advocated for establishing minimum standards for towing companies serving the city, including proximity to Whitehall, years of operation, and equipment requirements. He argued that these measures would ensure quicker response times for police and better service for residents.

The council members engaged with Schreiner, seeking clarification on how the proposed fees would be charged and the implications for vehicle owners. The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining a reliable and efficient towing service for the community, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of the towing industry.

As the council considers these proposals, the potential adjustments to towing fees and standards could significantly impact the quality of service provided to Whitehall residents and the operational viability of local towing companies. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how these changes will be implemented and their effects on the community.