Committee backs adding a sixth tow provider to Kenosha police rotation

The Public Safety and Welfare committee on June 22 approved a resolution to add a sixth tow provider to the Kenosha Police Department’s contracted rotation, with supporters saying it will reduce hazardous roadway exposures and speed traffic restoration.

Police department representatives told the committee the chief submitted a letter supporting the change and emphasized that the addition carries “no cost to the city.” “We’re going from 5 providers to 6,” the police department representative said, arguing the extra vendor would help during peak times and multi-vehicle incidents.

Brian Johnson of AES Towing, who identified himself during the public hearing, told the committee his company has operated since 1990 and is seeking placement on the city’s list of approved impound and towing providers. “We’re just trying to get on to the city location list,” Johnson said.

Fire department leaders also supported the resolution, saying quicker tow and cleanup response reduces hazards to firefighters and motorists. The fire chief described a past incident involving a semi crash and fuel spills that required specialized cleanup, saying faster tow response can limit such risks.

A committee member moved to approve the resolution; the motion was seconded and the committee approved the measure by voice vote. Members also voted to change the principal sponsor to the Public Safety and Welfare committee to carry additional weight when the item goes before the full council.

The committee did not record a roll-call tally in the transcript; the action was approved on a voice vote. The resolution will advance as sponsored by the Public Safety and Welfare committee.