REQUEST TO GRANT RATE INCREASES FOR TOWING
CHARGES FOR FRANK SCOTTO TOWING

 

RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommends that Council:

• Authorize the proposed rate increases as requested by Frank Scotto Towing of Torrance, California

 

BACKGROUND

Frank Scotto Towing of Torrance, California has been the contract towing service for the City of Hermosa Beach since 1992. Frank Scotto Towing is responsible for towing all vehicles impounded by the police department. The police department has enjoyed an outstanding relationship with Mr. Scotto and his company. Frank Scotto Towing is a well-run, professional and trustworthy towing service. The police department averages perhaps one complaint (if that) per year regarding Scotto Towing. Frank Scotto Towing also collects the administrative fee of $42 on behalf of the City for each impounded vehicle. They have been very diligent in sending in a check for these accumulated fees each month.

In accordance with the contract with Frank Scotto Towing, rate increases must be approved by the City Council upon recommendation from the Chief of Police. Since the establishment of the contract with Frank Scotto Towing in 1992, there has been only one requested and approved rate increase in January of 1996. Frank Scotto Towing has requested the following rate increases:

 

Current Rate Proposed Rate

• Towing (passenger cars) $ 69.50/hour $ 79.00/hour
• Towing (over 1-ton) 109.75/hour 125.00/hour
• Additional Labor 69.50/hour 79.00/hour
• Dolly Charges 69.50/hour 79.00/hour
• Night Release Charge 34.25 39.50
• Storage 13.00/day 17.50/day

In comparison, the Los Angeles Official Police Garage rates, as approved by the Los Angeles Police Commission, are $86.00 for passenger cars and $20.00 per day for storage. The California Highway Patrol rates are $80.00 for towing and $16.50 per day for storage. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department rates are $78.00 for towing and $15.00 per day for storage.

Based upon the excellent service provided by Frank Scotto Towing for the past several years, staff recommends that Council grants the requested rate increases as outlined. Staff also feels that the proposed increases are fair and within the range of charges offered in the Los Angeles area.

 

FISCAL IMPACT

Granting the requested rate increases will have no fiscal impact on the City budget.