Howell updates towing law
BY TOYNETT HALL
Staff Writer

HOWELL - Out with the old and in with the new is what is reflected in Howell's newly revised version of its 25-year-old towing ordinance. An amended version of the existing ordinance was introduced at the Township Council's April 10 meeting.

According to the ordinance, the council directed the township manager to review Howell's towing policy and consider changes to the policies contained within Ordinance No. 0-06-58; and to study additional changes to the towing codes."

Mayor Joseph DiBella said officials needed to update the towing ordinance to reflect the changes in Howell.

According to DiBella, Howell has to have a relationship with towing companies to service vehicles on township roads. The ordinance goes through the rules of engagement on how the township needs to work.

"We used due diligence to try to find ways to improve the towing ordinance," DiBella said. "We solicited feedback from the towing companies. When we finalize this law, everyone who is a constituent will have had an opportunity to have participated in this process to ensure that the law reflects everyone's views."

Some of the amendments made to the ordinance were in a section titled "definitions."

For example, the definition of a standard tow was changed from "shall mean the vehicle is winched on a flatbed (without additional effort such as pulling a vehicle from a ditch or embankment). The vehicle will be towed from scene to the tow company storage facility," to one in which a standard tow "shall mean the vehicle is winched on a flatbed without additional effort. The vehicle will be towed from scene to the tow company storage facility."

The ordinance is scheduled for a public hearing and possible vote for adoption at the council's May 1 meeting.