Memorandum                                                              

City of Lawrence     

City Attorney’s Office

TO:                  David L. Corliss, City Manager

FROM:            Chad J. Sublet, Assistant City Attorney

Cc:                  Toni Wheeler, City Attorney

DATE:             Wednesday, October 17, 2012

RE:                  Resolution No. 7000 requesting use of the Douglas County contract tow rotation list

Douglas County operates the Douglas County Emergency Communications Center (ECC).  The ECC dispatches emergency service response (law enforcement, fire, and EMS) throughout Douglas County, including in the City of Lawrence. The ECC also assists law enforcement agencies and individuals, in some circumstances, by relaying requests for motor vehicle towing services to towing service providers.   

In the spring and summer of 2012, Douglas County initiated reforms of its towing policies and procedures. City staff participated in meetings with Douglas County on the topic, as the City’s Police Department is often involved or present when a motor vehicle is towed within the city limits.   

On September 19, 2012, the Board of County Commissioners of Douglas County passed Home Rule Resolution 12-9-2. It creates a County contract tow rotation list, to be used by ECC when law enforcement requests tow services and a specific tow operator is not requested.  Companies contracting with the County to be on the County contract tow rotation list will meet certain requirements set forth in the resolution including providing the County with proof of insurance, demonstrating the ability to provide certain service levels and facilities, and having a contract with the County concerning its service rates.  Section 1-1508.B of the County’s resolution provides opportunities for cities in the county to request the ECC to use the County’s contract tow rotation list, upon request of the City, when the owner or operator of the vehicle does not request services from a specific service provider.   

On September 28, 2012, Douglas County requested the City participate in the contract tow rotation list and utilize the contract tow rotation list when the Lawrence Police Department or other City officials request that a vehicle be towed.  The City’s participation will enhance efficiency for the ECC and the participating law enforcement agencies in Douglas County.  In order to participate, the governing body must specifically request the ECC use the County contract tow rotation list.   

ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt Resolution No. 7000 requesting the ECC to use the County’s contract tow rotation list for towing services within the City of Lawrence when requested to do so by the Lawrence Police Department.