Jackson County committee holds proposed tow-company licensing ordinance after industry, police raise concerns

Jackson County’s Intergovernmental Affairs Committee paused action on a proposed ordinance to license and regulate tow companies after multiple witnesses — including tow-industry representatives, Kansas City police and a state trooper — raised concerns about high fees, broad suspension and revocation language and practical problems implementing state paperwork requirements.

Councilman Daryl Kearls, Fifth District at large, told the committee the ordinance “brings the county within adherence to state law,” citing state tow statutes and work he had done at the city level. Kearls said he had discussed the measure with county legislators to coordinate city and county approaches and asked the committee for support.

The committee’s public hearing drew extended testimony from law enforcement and towing-industry representatives. Missouri State Trooper Nate Bradley said state tow law and a Department of Revenue form (Form 4,669) are intended to create checks on mischaracterized tows and stolen-vehicle entries, but he said the process can break down when the form is not completed or when law-enforcement agencies do not return the paperwork. “That form…provides a check and balance when it’s working properly,” Bradley said.

Kansas City Police Major Chris…