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Pinellas commissioners set June review after towing operators warn of service losses
Summary
Towing operators told the Pinellas County commission that years-long rate delays and surging costs threaten tow businesses and public safety. Commissioners directed staff to return June 16 with options, including a possible resolution to add a fuel surcharge while broader rate changes are developed.
Towing operators told Pinellas County commissioners on Wednesday that rising fuel, insurance and labor costs are forcing small firms to close and threatens public-safety response times.
"We're not asking for special treatment. We are asking for fair treatment," Justin Heller, a local tow-company owner, told the board during the public-comment period. Heller and several other speakers said rates have not kept pace with inflation and that operating costs — including a recent $15,000 weekly fuel bill for one operator — have become unsustainable.
Commissioners acknowledged the industry’s case and pressed staff about legal and advertising requirements for changing rates. Barry, a county staff member, said base rates are set by ordinance but can be changed by resolution more quickly, while an ordinance change requires published notice and a longer lead time.
"If you choose to do something, then that gives you the ability to act on that resolution, and it would be effective immediately," a county attorney told the commission when discussing a resolution path.
Commissioner Peters, who urged swifter action, and others pressed for an interim fuel surcharge to ease operators’ immediate burden. Commissioner Scott said he favored a holistic review of rate structure rather than a piecemeal approach, while some colleagues urged an immediate surcharge as a stopgap.
Outcome: Commissioners directed staff to bring towing-rate options and a draft resolution for consideration at the June 16 commission meeting, with the goal of enabling a resolution that could take effect more quickly than an ordinance. Staff said a final ordinance could follow later if the commission so directs.
Why it matters: Towing companies play a role clearing crash scenes and removing hazards; commissioners heard repeated warnings that fewer available operators would mean longer response times, fewer trucks during emergencies and higher costs for consumers.
What's next: The commission will discuss staff-prepared rate options June 16. Staff recommended the commission consider both a short-term resolution (for example, a fuel surcharge) and a comprehensive ordinance to reset base rates later this summer."
