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Committee approves tow-release form and $25 administrative fee to reduce tow-yard disputes
Summary
The Ordinance Committee recommended a new tow-release form and $25 administrative fee after the police representative said it would create an audit trail and cut conflicts at tow yards; council sought clarity on whether fee revenue goes to the general fund.
The Brockton Ordinance Committee voted March 31 to recommend an ordinance establishing a standardized tow-release form and a $25 administrative fee for vehicles towed at police direction.
A police sergeant explained the form would document the reason for the tow, the officer's name and the vehicle's location, and would be required for releasing a vehicle to the registered owner or authorized representative. "It provides a clear audit trail proving that the tow was authorized by law enforcement," the sergeant said.
Councilors asked how frequently tows occur and where the fee revenue would be deposited. The presenter estimated the department conducts about 3,500 police-ordered tows annually and said the revenue likely goes to the city's general fund, though staff said they would confirm that with the finance department.
The committee voted to recommend the ordinance favorably to the full council.
