Commission approves conditional use permit and variances for Ready Riggs Towing yard

Ready Riggs Towing asked the commission for a conditional use permit and three variances to operate a secure towing and impound facility in a C-1 commercial district to reduce long hauling of impounded vehicles and to improve officer safety. Planning and zoning unanimously recommended approval with conditions addressing noise, lighting and trash control.

Commissioners and staff discussed rotation of wrecking companies, PRC (Public Regulation Commission) requirements for tow yards, officer safety benefits of a local impound yard and the need to ensure the yard is maintained so it does not become a visible junkyard. The commission approved the conditional use permit and separately approved each variance (storage of more than five vehicles, allowance for a 550 sq ft prefabricated office in lieu of 800 sq ft, and related requests). Staff emphasized the conditional permit will be inspected after one year and can be revoked if the facility is poorly managed.