Title
Mandatory Vehicle Impoundment Ordinance
Body
Summary & Background:
On December 16, 2024, City Council approved a motion directing City staff to prepare a presentation for a Council Study Session to discuss a proposed ordinance amending sections of the Commerce City Code pertaining to the mandatory impoundment of vehicles stopped by a police officer where the officer has probable cause that the operator (1) does not have a valid driver’s license, (2) the vehicle is not properly registered, and (3) the vehicle does not have insurance as required by law.
The intent and purpose of this ordinance is to protect public health and safety due to the dangers and risks to the community in allowing a vehicle to be driven on the roadways of Commerce City when these three conditions are present.
Staff Responsible (Department Head): Chief Guadnola and Heidi Hugdahl (CAO)
Staff Presenting: Chief Guadnola and Heidi Hugdahl (CAO)
Financial Impact: Likely minimal. Tow company would bill the owner of the vehicle.
Funding Source: N/A
Staff Recommendation: Staff is supportive of the City adopting a mandatory impoundment ordinance.
Suggested Motion: No motion needed in Study Session. Staff can prepare an ordinance for a future Council meeting.