Commission approves updated maximum tow rates after public hearing; ordinance to be reviewed in six months

The board held a public hearing July 22 on an ordinance amending Henry County's maximum tow rates. Local towing operators and an insurance representative told the commission that insurance premiums, replacement-vehicle costs and driver shortages have substantially increased operators'unit costs since the county last amended rates seven years earlier.

Chris Tormina, an insurance-write representative who said he works with local towing firms, told commissioners that commercial-auto underwriting has tightened, carriers have left the market and premiums have risen substantially. "We've went up, probably average of 70 or 80% in insurance rates," Tormina said, describing market pressures and higher repair costs for modern vehicles, including electric vehicles.

Stephanie Esposotto, owner of Stonewall Towing (and affiliated operations), said the business had lost a driver and faces steep workers'comp and insurance bills; she urged the board to raise the county rates to avoid local providers exiting the rotation. "Our insurance renewal quote went up 17% from last year with no claims," Esposotto said, adding that storage, mileage and after-hours costs also strain operations.

After discussion, Commissioner Glaser moved (and Commissioner Howard seconded) to adopt the amended rates and to review the ordinance in six months; the board approved the motion in a roll-call vote. County Attorney Matt Rollerson noted that, if the board wished, staff could place a return date earlier or set an annual review date; the board chose a six-month review to allow staff and commissioners to monitor industry conditions.

The ordinance raises maximum hook, labor and storage fees (the board adopted the specific fee schedule included in the staff packet) and reduces the free-storage grace period to 30 minutes, with loaded mileage to be compensated. The ordinance also directs staff to return at the review date with data if additional adjustments are needed.

Commissioners said they accepted the need to balance taxpayer interests, roadway safety and ensuring local rotation providers remain financially viable to support law enforcement and emergency responses.