2004-25461 Reso
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-25461
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE SECOND OF
THREE ONE (1) YEAR RENEWAL TERMS OF THE TOWING
PERMITS WITH BEACH TOWING SERVICES, INC. AND TREMONT
TOWING SERVICES, INC., RESPECTIVELY; BOTH TERMS
COMMENCING ON MARCH 1,2004, AND EXPIRING ON FEBRUARY
28, 2005, WITH OPTIONS TO RENEW FOR ONE (1) ADDITIONAL
ONE (1) YEAR TERM, AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE CITY;
AND FURTHER APPROVE THE ATTACHED THIRTEENTH (13TH)
AMENDMENT TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND
REGULATIONS FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND PARKING
DEPARTMENT TOWING PERMITS; SAID AMENDMENT PROVIDING
FOR AN INCREASE TO THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE TOWING
RATES; CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING; INFORMATIONAL ITEMS;
AND COMPLAINTS/SANCTIONS.
WHEREAS, Chapter 106, Article V of the Miami Beach City Code, provides for
police vehicle towing permits for the towing of vehicles identified by the City as requiring
removal from public and private property; and
WHEREAS, the City issued Request for Proposals No. 1-91/94 for Providing
Police and Parking Department Towing Services in the City of Miami Beach, and
thereafter the Mayor and City Commission selected Beach Towing Services, Inc. and
Tremont Towing Services, Inc. , respectively, as the successful proposers to provide
these services; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 95-21615, the Mayor and City
Commission extended the towing permits issued for Beach Towing Service, Inc. and
Tremont Towing Service, Inc. for a fifteen (15) month period that commenced on July 1,
1995, and expired on September 30, 1996; and
WHEREAS, on June 21, 1996, the Mayor and City Commission approved a
second extension of the permits for a period of sixty (60) days, from September 30,
1996 to November 30, 1996, to negotiate additional terms and conditions of the towing
permits with Beach Towing Service, Inc. and Tremont Towing Service, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, on November 20, 1996, the Mayor and Commission approved an
extension of the towing permits for a period of two (2) years, expiring on November 30,
1998, with a one (1) year option, to be renewed at the sole discretion of the City; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 1998, the Mayor and Commission approved the
two (2) one-year renewal options of the towing permits, expiring on November 30, 1999
and 2000, respectively; and
WHEREAS, on October 18, 2000, the Mayor and Commission waived, by a 5/7th
vote, the competitive bidding requirement and approved a two-year towing permits with
Beach Towing Services, Inc., and Tremont Towing Services, Inc., expiring on
November 30, 2002, with three additional one-year terms, to be renewed at the sole
discretion of the City; and
WHEREAS, on October 23, 2002, the Mayor and Commission approved the first
of three one (1) year renewal terms for the permits, commencing on December 1, 2002
and expiring on November 30, 2003; and
WHEREAS, on October 15, 2003, the Mayor and Commission approved a three
(3) month extension, commencing on December 1, 2003 and expiring on February 29,
2004, allowing for the Administration and towing service providers to negotiate contract
terms; and
WHEREAS, Beach Towing Services, Inc. and Tremont Towing Services, Inc.
continue to be the only two service providers which satisfy all requirements as
stipulated in the City's towing permit requirements, including the ability to provide
storage facilities within the City limits; and
WHEREAS, the Administration, including the Police Department and the Parking
Department, are satisfied with the level of service provided by both Beach Towing
Services, Inc. and Tremont Towing Services, Inc., and herein recommend exercising
the first of the three one (1) year renewal terms, commencing on March 1, 2004, and
expiring on February 28,2005; and
WHEREAS, the Administration also has reviewed the maximum allowable towing
rates, as outlined in the Twelfth (12th) Amendment of the Rules and Regulations for the
Police Department and Parkin~ Department Towing Permits, and herein recommends,
as the attached Thirteenth (13t ) Amendment of the Rules and Regulations, to increase
the existing maximum allowable towing rate for Class "A", "B", "C", and "D" tows by $10
in 2004 and 2005; increase the Administrative Fee of $25 to $30 for all non-consensual
tows; establish a fee of $20 in 2004, and $25 in 2005, for labor performed only when
access to the vehicle is required in order to properly engage/tow vehicle; increase
indoor storage fees from $25 to $30; and provide for Customer Service
Training/Informational Items and Complaints/Sanctions; and
WHEREAS, the Transportation and Parking Committee reviewed, discussed,
and endorsed the aforestated Thirteenth Amendment at its regularly scheduled meeting
held on January 5, 2004.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DULY RESOLVED BY THE CITY
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA that the Mayor and
City Commission, upon recommendation of the Administration, approve the
second of three one-year renewal terms of the towing permits with Beach Towing
Services, Inc. and Tremont Towing Services, Inc., respectively; both terms
commencing on March 1, 2004, and expiring on February 28, 2005, with options to
renew for one (1) additional one (1) year term, at the sole discretion of the city;
and further approve the attached Thirteenth (13th) Amendment to the
Administrative Rules and Regulations for the Police Department and Parking
Department Towing Permits; said amendment providing for an increase in the
existing maximum allowable towing rates; Customer Service Training,
Informational Items, and Complaints/Sanctions. Accordingly, the Mayor and City
Clerk are herein authorized to execute any and all documents memorializing this
extension.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of
January
, 2004
ATTEST:
_~M4r ~ (JA.~
CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO
FORM & LANGUAGE
& FOR EXECUTION
~J~
F:\PING\$ALL \SAUL \COMMRESO\TOWREG1304.res.doc
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
POLICE DEPARTMENT
AND
PARKING DEPARTMENT
TOWING PERMIT
AMENDMENT
No. 13
1. COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
Beach Towing and/or Tremont Towing from here on referred to as Permittee
shall provide its own two-way radio or approved alternate equivalent
communication system. In addition it shall provide the Parking Department with
a radio to communicate with its company. The communication system shall be
between the Permittee's base station and service trucks utilized in providing
towing service for the City.
2. STORAGE FACiliTIES
The Permittee shall have available outside storage for a minimum of one
hundred (100) vehicles. Said storage area will be enclosed in accordance with
applicable zoning requirements to assure maximum security for impounded
vehicles. Permittee shall surround the storage facility with a chain-link fence or
solid wall type fence at least six (6) feet high. The storage facility shall be
sufficiently illuminated to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least
150 feet during nighttime. All vehicle keys shall be secured separately. The
Permittee shall provide a completely enclosed inside storage area (solid walls,
roof and access door) for at least five (5) vehicles. Said area will be secured
from unauthorized persons. The City shall designate temporary storage if
necessary where towing is required for special events. In the event all storage
facilities of any Permittee are filled to capacity, the Permittee shall NOT be
relieved of responsibility to perform and is required to make such arrangements
for storage as will fulfill the requirements of the City. All storage space used,
which is not listed in the original application, must meet the requirements of the
permit. No storage space or area shall be used unless prior written approval is
obtained from the Miami Beach Police Department or Parking Department.
Storage must be within the City limits of Miami Beach for a minimum of seven (7)
days, after which vehicles may be removed to a facility, meeting the
requirements of the contract, outside the City limits of Miami Beach but within
Dade County, Florida. Any vehicles with a "police hold" or vehicles, which are
recovered, stolen shall not be stored outside the city limits of Miami Beach.
Permittee may not charge an additional towing fee for removal of any vehicle
from the city limits of Miami Beach for storage. An owner claiming a vehicle
stored outside the city limits of Miami Beach shall be given the option of free
transportation to its vehicle or having its vehicle returned to the Permittee's
Miami Beach storage facility without charge. Unless otherwise instructed by the
City Manager or its designee, all vehicles towed at the request of a parking
enforcement specialist or the police department is to be stored at the Permittee's
storage facility. No storage charges shall be applicable for any vehicles, which,
at the request of the City Manager or its designee, are stored at a City facility.
The Permittee shall have a permanent on-premises office, which shall be staffed
on a 24-hour basis by at least one employee or security guard. Permittee shall
provide security on the premises in the form of one or more of the following:
night watchman or dispatcher, dog, cameras, or security guard service.
2.1 TOWS WITH POLICE HOLD
Vehicles impounded with an evidence hold, investigative hold order,
confiscations hold, or other "police hold" pursuant to Miami Beach Police
Department instructions, may be stored for a period of up to five (5) working
days, excluding Saturday, Sunday and City of Miami Beach observed legal
holidays, at no charge for regular storage for the first five (5) days or until the
"police hold" is released, whichever occurs first. After that time, if the vehicle
needs to be held (police hold) for a longer period of time, the Miami Beach Police
Department may have the vehicle removed by the Permittee to a city storage
facility (City of Miami Beach Police Department), without charge to the City.
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After the first five (5) days (excluding holidays and weekends) of storage are
exhausted, the Miami Beach Police Department shall provide the Permittee
written notification to continue the hold and either remove the vehicle or retain
the vehicle at the Permittee lot. If the Permittee does not receive that written
notification to continue the hold, the Permittee may release the vehicle to the
owner/lien holder in accordance with FS 713.78. The Permittee shall notify the
Miami Beach Police Department of an impending release of a vehicle with a
police hold prior to releasing the vehicle to the owner. If the Miami Beach Police
Department has the vehicle removed from the Permittee's lot, and the vehicle is
subsequently released to the owner, the owner will be responsible for the initial
tow and storage for the number of days the vehicle remained at the Permittee's
lot. This will not include the tow to or from the City storage facility. However, if
the Miami Beach Police Department chooses to have the vehicle remain at the
Permittee's lot, the Miami Beach Police Department shall be responsible for any
storage charges incurred after the initial five (5) days (excluding holidays and
weekends). The towing and storage rates charged to an owner/lien holder shall
not exceed the rates that would be charged to the Miami Beach Police
Department. When the Miami Beach Police Department orders a vehicle
involved in a criminal investigation to be towed to the police station, or a location
other than the Permittee's lot, the towed vehicle may be released from such
location to the owner/lien holder upon approval by a police supervisor. Under
this procedure, the Miami Beach Police Department agrees to pay for such tows
so ordered.
All Police Holds must include the following:
1. Name and agency of the Law Enforcement Agency.
2. Date and time the hold is placed on the vehicle.
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3. A general description of the vehicle, including color, make,
model, body style and year, VIN, registration plate with state
and year, and validation sticker number with state and year.
4. The specific reason for placing the hold.
5. The condition of the vehicle.
6. The location where the vehicle is being held.
7. The name, address, and phone number of the tow company
storage facility.
ALL VEHICLES SHALL BE STORED INSIDE THE DESIGNATED STORAGE
FACILITY AT ALL TIMES.
2.2 In cases where a vehicle has a " police hold" pursuant to a violation of section
106-313 of the Code of the City of Miami Beach-the Vehicle Impoundment
Ordinance-Permittee agrees to reduce removal, towing and storage charges
when ordered by the City's special master in cases where the special master
finds that the City did not establish probable cause at the preliminary or final
hearing and/or when the special master determines the existence of a
meritorious defense or financial hardship. In any case, Permittee shall receive a
minimum of $20.00 for each vehicle removed pursuant to this violation. In
accordance with paragraph 2.1, after the first five days of storage, or sooner
(excluding Saturdays, Sundays and observed legal holidays), all vehicles
impounded for a violation of the Vehicle Impoundment Ordinance shall also be
removed by Permittee to the Police Department without charge.
3. STORAGE PROCEDURES FOR VEHICLES
The Permittee shall provide storage for impounded vehicles in the outside
enclosed area unless specific written instructions are given for inside storage by
the impounding officer, or vehicle owner. If so required for proper processing for
investigative purposes, the Permittee shall move the vehicles to a designated
4
area within the City of Miami Beach for processing prior to storage, at no
additional charge to the City of Miami Beach or to the vehicle owner. In any such
instance, the City of Miami Beach and the Miami Beach Police Department shall
not be held responsible for making sure that arrangements have been made for
towing and storage prior to release of an impounded vehicle by the City or the
Police Department. All such vehicles shall be first returned to the Permittee's
property, and then only the fee for the original tow shall be charged.
4. PROTECTION OF IMPOUNDED VEHICLES AND PROPERTY
FS 713.78 (7) @ requires that when the Miami Beach Police Department
requests a vehicle to be removed from an accident scene, street, or highway,
the department shall conduct an inventory and prepare a written record of all
personal property found in the vehicle before the vehicle is removed by the
Permittee. The Permittee shall assume total responsibility to ensure that an
impounded vehicle shall remain in the same condition and retain the same
equipment at time of release that it had at the time it was impounded. The
Permittee shall also assume responsibility for any article(s) of value left in the
vehicle and listed on the Vehicle Storage Receipt. The Permittee shall replace
any equipment and/or article upon verification of the loss by the designated
investigative agency representing the City of Miami Beach. If, at the option of
the officer at the scene, the vehicle requires special weather protection, it will so
note it on the Vehicle Storage Receipt, and the Permittee shall be required to
cover the vehicle completely with a weatherproof material and shall be allowed to
charge the sum of fifty cents ($.50) per day for this service.
5. LOCATION CHANGES OF IMPOUNDED VEHICLES
The Permittee shall not change the type of storage (inside and/or outside) or
storage location without written approval of the Miami Beach Police Department
5
P.M.U. (Property Management Unit) Supervisor or its authorized designee prior
to any such change.
6. REQUEST FOR TOW SERVICE
All requests for tow service and removal of traffic hazards shall be made by a
parking enforcement specialist or through the Miami Beach Police Department.
When more than one permit is in effect, the dispatching unit of either the Parking
Department or the Police Department will assign each tow to Permittee on a
rotating basis, alternating every tow. The Miami Beach Police Department
reserves the right to cancel a request for services of a participating Permittee at
any time including up to the time of hookup. The Permittee agrees that the mere
response to a service call scene without other action does not constitute a
service for which charges are applicable. Except in situations where a vehicle
has a "police hold" per paragraph 2.1, if the registered owner or other legally
authorized person in control of the vehicle arrives at the scene prior to the
removal or towing of the vehicle, the vehicle shall be disconnected from the
towing or removal apparatus, and that person shall be allowed to remove the
vehicle without interference upon payment of a reasonable service fee of not
more than one half of the posted rate for such towing service for which a receipt
shall be given, unless that person refuses to remove the vehicle which is
otherwise illegally or unlawfully parked. In those situations where immediate
removal of a legally parked vehicle is necessary in the interest of public safety
due to a fire, storm, flood, crime scene, or other emergency reason and upon
authorization of a commanding officer or supervisor of the Miami Beach Police
Department, the Permittee shall remove said vehicle to the nearest public
parking area available at no cost to the City or to the owner of the vehicle. If a
request for a tow, which involves the removal of a vehicle, or boat, which is
located under water, is made by the Miami Beach Police Department, the tow
6
company shall provide underwater divers to handle the hook-up of such vehicle
or boat.
7. DELAYS
The Permittee shall respond to requests for Police or Parking Department
service through Miami Beach Police Department Communications Bureau within
a reasonable period of time. The Permittee shall respond within twenty (20)
minutes of receipt of request for service or notify the Police Communications
Bureau of the estimated time of delay and the reasons thereof. In the event of
delay the parking enforcement specialist or the Miami Beach Police Department
retains the right to cancel such a request for service and to use the services of
another Permittee.
8. ATTENDANT ON DUTY
The Permittee shall make available on a 24-hour, 7 -day a week basis attendants
and equipment for the immediate response to calls for service from a parking
enforcement specialist or from the police department. In addition, the Permittee
shall make available adequate personnel to staff its facility 24-hours, 7 -days a
week for the purpose of dispatching calls and releasing towed vehicles to
owners.
9. REMOVING HAZARDS
After arrival at a scene, the tow truck operator shall remove any hazards or
debris from the street and impound such vehicles as requested by the parking
enforcement specialist or_police officer. It is the duty of the parking enforcement
specialist or the police officer on duty to determine when a vehicle should be
impounded, and the tow truck operator shall abide by its decision.
10. IMPOUND REPORTS/OWNER NOTIFICATION
The parking enforcement specialist or police officer on the scene will be
responsible for obtaining the information required for the Vehicle Storage
7
Receipt. The wrecker driver shall not remove a vehicle from the scene without a
copy of the Storage Receipt. The Permittee shall be responsible for notifying the
registered owner or their agents, and any lien holder, via certified mail, return
receipt requested of the whereabouts of the vehicle within 24 hours of
impoundment if all necessary information has been supplied on the Vehicle
Storage Receipt. If, at the time of impounding, the name and address of the
registered owner and lien holder, if any is not available, it shall be the
responsibility of the Parking Department or the Police Department to provide this
information to the Permittee upon request. The Permittee shall obtain such
information from the Parking Department or from the Police Department within
five (5) days from the date of storage and shall notify the registered owner or its
agent, and any lien holder, of the location of the vehicle within seven (7) days,
excluding Saturday and Sunday, from the date of storage. Notice shall be by
certified mail, return receipt requested and shall be complete upon mailing.
Telephone notice shall also be given when possible. If the state of registration is
unknown, the Permittee shall make a good faith best effort in so notifying the
owner and any lien holder, and such notice shall be given within a reasonable
period of time from the date of storage. "Good faith best effort" means the
following checks have been performed by the Permittee to establish prior state of
registration and for title:
1. Check of vehicle for any type of tag, tag record, temporary tag, or regular
tag.
2. Check of law enforcement report for tag number, if the vehicle was towed
at the request of a law enforcement officer.
3. Check of trip sheet or tow ticket of tow truck operator to see if a tag was
on vehicle at beginning of tow, if private tow.
8
4. If there is no address of the owner on the impound report, check of law
enforcement report to see if an out-of-state address is indicated from
driver license information.
5. Check of vehicle for inspection sticker or other stickers and decals that
may indicate a state of possible registration.
6. Check of the interior of the vehicle for any papers that may be in the glove
box, trunk, or other areas for a state of registration.
The Permittee shall maintain a separate log of vehicles in which the owner or lien
holder cannot be determined at place of business listing date, time and method
of notification, location towed from, and total towing and storage charges.
11. VIEWING OF IMPOUNDED VEHICLES
Permittee agrees to allow the registered owner of an impounded vehicle or the
registered owner's agent or insurance representative, upon proper
identification, to view said vehicle on the premises of Permitted. Permittee shall
allow every vehicle owner or authorized representative to inspect the towed
vehicle within a reasonable time upon his/her arrival at the storage facility and
before payment of any charges. The vehicles owner or authorized
representative shall be permitted to remove from the vehicle any and all personal
possessions not affixed to the vehicle, including but not limited to telephones,
tapes, tools, etc., and Permittee shall assist any vehicle's owner/agent in doing
so. Vehicle owner/authorized representative shall acknowledge receipt of such
property on a form provided by Permittee.
12. RELEASES
The Permittee shall directly release any vehicle to its owner or custodian upon
payment of appropriate fees due within thirty (30) minutes of payment. The
Permittee shall directly release any vehicle that has not been marked "police
hold", provided the proper proof of identification and ownership is presented.
9
Any vehicle towed, which is marked "police hold" must be released in
accordance with the procedure set forth in paragraph 2.1 Permittee shall release
any vehicle towed at the request of the Police Department P.M.U. (Property
Management Unit) Supervisor or its designee only to the person whose name
appears on the title or registration certificate as the registered owner of the
vehicle, or to the authorized agent of such person. Persons who make
application for the release of such a vehicle shall be required to produce proof of
ownership by presentation of a title or registration and photo identification, and
where applicable, proof of agency. A photocopy of the identification used for the
release shall be attached to the yellow copy of the vehicle storage receipt. This
information shall be clearly legible. All motor vehicles that have not been
claimed must be disposed of according to state and county laws. The Permittee
will be required within three (3) days after a sale, or if a title is surrendered for
payment, to submit a detailed listing of the vehicle identification number of the
vehicle, tow receipt number, police case number, year, make, model of vehicle,
monies received, purchaser's name, address and local telephone number. In the
event that the vehicle is "junked" the Permittee shall provide the Miami Beach
Police Department with a copy of the certificate of destruction as required by
state law. This copy shall be attached to the yellow copy of the vehicle storage
receipt. In the release section of the vehicle storage receipt, information shall be
recorded as to the name, address, and telephone number of the person or
company that takes possession. In the case that the registered owner of the
vehicle relinquishes all claims to the vehicle and transfers ownership of the
vehicle to the Permittee, the Permittee may not charge a fee for services
rendered.
12.1 All vehicles slated for auction must first be approved by the City Manager or its
designee.
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12.2 When abandoned/unclaimed vehicles are auctioned by the Permittee, the City
has the right to bid on such vehicles. In cases where abandoned/unclaimed
vehicles are auctioned by the Permittee, the City has a right to bid on such
vehicles and may obtain title to any such vehicle, provided there are no other
bidders, upon payment of the towing and storage charges. The City shall
designate a representative of the Miami Beach Police Department to track the
auctions of abandoned/ unclaimed vehicles and make the appropriate bidding.
Permittee shall notify the Miami Beach Police Department of all abandoned/
unclaimed vehicles prior to auction.
12.3 The Permittee shall not charge the City of Miami Beach any towing and storage
charges associated with those abandoned/unclaimed vehicles of which the City
chooses to take ownership per subsection 12.2 above.
12.4 A police supervisor or parking enforcement supervisor may request the
Permittee to release a vehicle that has been engaged but not removed from the
scene should the impoundment of the vehicle be deemed improper. The release
of the vehicle shall be authorized by the agent of the city (police supervisor
and/or parking enforcement supervisor) who, must sign in the indicated section
of the tow slip authorizing the release of the vehicle at the scene. The City of
Miami Beach Police or Parking Department shall pay the towing fees in an
improper tow. In instances where a vehicle has been improperly towed and such
vehicle belongs to a disabled operator, Permittee shall deliver said vehicle to the
original scene of the tow or to a location within the city and the City shall pay all
applicable towing fees.
13. EQUIPMENT
Ownership of required equipment as stated herein, is not required under this
permit; however, legally binding signed agreements covering leasing or
11
cooperative use of required equipment must be presented on demand of the
City. Equipment leased or cooperatively used must be made available to the
Permittee on first priority and be so indicated in the agreements to be filed with
the Miami Beach Police Department. When the Permittee sub-contracts, the
Permittee is still responsible for meeting all of the requirements of these Rules
and Regulations. Each Permittee shall have available the following types of
equipment:
13.1 WRECKERS (TOW TRUCKS)
All wreckers will be registered and shall have appropriate licenses to operate as
wreckers. The Contractor's towing license number shall be displayed on the
front of the vehicle in letters at least three (3) inches high. The company name
(or name of Joint Venture) shall be displayed on the driver and passenger side of
the vehicle in letters at least three (3) inches high. The company's address (or
address of Joint Venture) and telephone number shall be displayed on the driver
and passenger side of the vehicle in letters at least one (1) inch high.
All wreckers shall display a current decal issued by the City of Miami Beach. The
Proposer shall produce evidence of ownership or valid 1 st party lease of the
required number of Class "A", Class "B", Class "C", and slide back car carriers.
Each Permittee shall maintain mobile equipment between its truck and base
stations. All equipment shall be maintained in a state of readiness for response
as delineated in this Contract and be for the sole use of the Contractor. The
Proposer agrees to have no markings on either vehicles, buildings, or
correspondence that indicates or tends to indicate any official relationship
between the Contractor and the Miami Beach Police Department or Parking
Department, Dade County, or any government agency.
13.2 MINIMUM RATINGS FOR WRECKERS
Wreckers shall meet the following minimum ratings:
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(1) Class "A" Wrecker:
(a) Commercially manufactured unit, with a rated capacity of not less
than 10,000 pounds, GVW
(b) Cab to axle dimension of not less than 56 inches
(c) Dual rear wheels
(d) Commercially manufactured boom with a minimum capacity of
8,000 pounds
(e) Hydraulically operated winch(es) with a minimum total winching
capacity of 8,000 pounds
(f) One hundred (100) feet of 3/8 inch steel core cable per winch
(g) Wheel life with a retracted rating of not less than 3,500 pounds and
an extended rating of not less than 2,000 pounds
(h) Tow sling with a safe lift rating of 3,500 pounds
(I) Two (2) 3/8 inch high test safety chains
U) Dolly equipped
(k) One (1) motorcycle sling
(I) Four-way lug wrench
(m) One (1) pair of jumper cables
(2) Class "A" Slide Back Car Carrier:
(a) Commercially manufactured unit, with a rated capacity of not less
than 10,000 pounds, GVW
(b) Cab to axle dimension of not less than 102 inches
(c) Dual rear wheels
(d) Seventeen (17) feet or longer hydraulically operated slide back or
tilt bed
(e) Hydraulically operated winch(es) with a minimum total winching
capacity of 8,000 pounds
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(f) Sixty five (65) feet of 3/8 inch steel core cable
(g) Two (2) tie down chains, each ten (10) feet in length
(h) Four-way lug wrench
(I) One (1) pair of jumper cables
(3) Class "B" Wrecker:
(a) Commercially manufactured unit, with a rated capacity of not less
than 18,000 pounds, GVW
(b) Cab to axle dimension of not less than 84 inches
(c) Commercially manufactured hydraulic boom(s) with a minimum
total capacity of 16,000 pounds
(d) Hydraulically operated winch(es) with a minimum total winching
capacity of 16,000 pounds
(e) Two hundred (200) feet of % inch steel core cable per winch
(f) Under reach with a retracted rating of not less than 6,000 pounds
and an extended rating of not less than 4,000 pounds
(g) Tow sling with a safe lift rating of 8,500 pounds
(h) Two (2) 5/16 inch alloy safety chains
(I) Tow bar equipped
0) Two (2) snatch blocks, minimum 8,000 pound capacity each
(k) Two (2) scotch blocks
(I) Brake lock
(m) Six (6) to eight (8) feet of extra towing chain with hooks, minimum
4,000 pound capacity chain with hooks, minimum 4,000 pound
capacity
(n) Four-way lug wrench
(0) One (1) pair of jumper cables
(4) Class "B" Slide Back Car Carrier:
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(a) Commercially manufactured unit, with a rated capacity of not less
than 20,000 pounds, GVW
(b) Cab to axle dimension of not less than 138 inches
(c) Dual rear wheels
(d) Twenty one (21) feet or longer hydraulically operated slide back or
tilt bed
(e) Hydraulically operated winch with a minimum winching capacity of
8,000 pounds
(f) One hundred (100) feet of 3/8 inch steel core cable
(g) Two (2) tie down chains, each ten (10) feet in length
(h) One (1) snatch block, minimum 8,000 pound capacity
(I) Four-way lug wrench
U) One (1) pair of jumper cables
(k) Commercial Non-restricted license plate
(5) Class "C" Wrecker:
(a) Commercially manufactured unit, with a rated capacity of not less
than 36,000 pounds, GVW
(b) Cab to axle dimension of not less than 144 inches
(c) Commercially manufactured boom(s) with a minimum total capacity
of 50,000 pounds
(d) Winch(es) with a minimum total winching capacity of 50,000
pounds
(e) Two hundred (200) feet of 5/8 inch steel core cable per winch
(f) Under reach with a retracted rating of not less than 25,000 pounds
and an extended rating of not less than 12,000 pounds
(g) Rear support jacks or outriggers
(h) Tow sling with a safe lift rating of 12,000 pounds
15
Two (2) % inch alloy safety chains
Tow bar equipped
External air hookup and hoses to supply air to disabled vehicles
Two (2) snatch blocks, minimum 24,000 pound capacity each
Two (2) scotch blocks
Spring brake - air lock
Six (6) to eight (8) feet of extra towing chain with hooks, minimum
4,000 pound capacity
Where two (2) Class "C" wreckers are required, at least one (1)
shall be under reach equipped.
13.3 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED ON EACH VEHICLE
(1 ) Two-way radio
(2) Proper safety lights
(3) Amber rotation dome light
(4) Two (2) flood lights to rear
(5) Sand (50 pounds minimum)
(6) Heavy duty sweeping broom (24" wide)
(7) Two (2) safety cones (day-glow orange, 3 feet high)
(8) One set of three (3) reflectors
(9) Six (6) thirty minute flares
(1 0) Flat shovel
(11 ) Axe
(12) Fire extinguisher 5 lb. dry chemical Underwriter approved
(13) First aid kit - minimum 16 units
(I)
(j)
(k)
(I)
(m)
(n)
(0)
*
14. REPORTS AND FILES
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The Permittee shall maintain, at its place of business, a file that will contain the
following legible records:
14.1 A Vehicle Storage Receipt (yellow and goldenrod copies) of each impounded
vehicle on its premises, proof of ownership notification and invoice of charges for
all vehicles released. Once the release occurs, the yellow copy is to be returned
to the requesting department with appropriate information including name,
address, and telephone number of the individual to whom each vehicle was
released. This information must appear legibly on both the yellow and goldenrod
copies. The golden rod copy will continue to be retained by Permittee. These
files will be maintained sequentially according to the police case number or
Parking Department number.
14.2 A log of all calls for service by the Police Department and Parking Department on
a weekly basis.
14.3 An Impound/Notification Log indicating date, time and method of notification to
the registered owner of an impounded vehicle, as well as other requested
information, as specified in Section 10 "Impound Reports/Owner Notification."
14.4 A log indicating vehicles to be auctioned, date of auction, name and address of
owner and lien holder, and date contacted.
14.5 A log indicating vehicles sold at auction, date auction notice was published,
proceeds of auction and distribution of proceeds.
14.6 PARKING DEPARTMENT: Sequentially Numbered Vehicle Storage Receipts for
each and every vehicle towed by authority of a Parking Enforcement Specialist,
indicating vehicle description, date and time towed, location towed from and to,
date and time released and itemized charges and reason for impoundment (Le.
Citation Number or Scoff Law case number). All files, records, and logs shall be
available for inspection and checking during normal working hours by the
Director of Parking, Chief of Police or designees. Permittee shall make available
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adequate work space including, but not limited to, a chair and a table, for City
personnel inspecting records.
15. ETHICS AND CONDUCT
The Permittee shall conduct its business in an orderly, ethical and business-like
manner at all times, and shall use every means to obtain and keep the
confidence of the motoring public. All public contact shall be in a courteous and
orderly manner.
The Permittee shall not divulge any information with respect to a towed vehicle
when such vehicle has a "police hold" from the Miami Beach Police Department.
Anyone wishing to obtain information on a vehicle with a "police hold" shall be
referred to the Miami Beach Police Department.
16. COMPLAINTS AND DISPUTES
Permittee agrees that any complaints received by the City Manager or its
designee; concerning a violation of the Administrative Rules and Regulations
contained herein, including but not limited to, misconduct on the part of the
Permittee, such as excessive charges, poor business practices, damage to
vehicles, etc., shall be referred to the Office of the Chief of Police or Director of
Parking, depending on which City department originated the tow, for
investigation. The respective Department shall notify Permittee of any
complaints within five (5) business days from receipt of the complaint. The
Permittee shall provide any additional explanation or information with respect to
the particular complaint within five (5) business days upon notification of the
complaint. A written disposition of the complaint will be forwarded to the
Permittee and complainant upon completion of the investigation. If there have
been three or more substantiated complaints within ninety (90) days filed with the
City of Miami Beach, the Chief of Police or the Parking Director may request the
City Manager that Permittee's permit be suspended for a period of not more than
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thirty (30) days with no reduction in the permit fee, reassigning such work as may
have been due the suspended Permittee to the remaining Permittee(s), in
accordance with the procedures in Miami Beach City Code Section 44-61.
16.1 CUSTOMER SERVICE/INFORMATION ITEMS AND MATERIALS:
Emplovees of the towina operators represent the City in their role as service
provider. The towina industry is a challenaina one from a customer relations
standpoint. Nevertheless. it is our (Citv's and service provider's) responsibility to
ensure the hiahest levels of customer service are provide to our residents.
visitors. and tourists. To this end. all employees of the towina service providers
that may have contact with customers and/or the aeneral public must attend and
participate in the City's TACC (Towina and Customer Contact) Trainina. This
trainina session will specificallv address customer relations trainina. includina
diffusina situations. demeanor/body lanauaae. and conflict resolution. All
employees of the service providers that have customer contact will be required to
attend this trainina twice annuallv (every six months). The towina operators will
further develop and issue informational materials providina answers to frequently
asked Questions. such as rates. directions/location of storaae lots. and contact
information.
16.2 COMPLAINTS/SANCTIONS:
It is the responsibility of the service provider to address customer service issues
in a polite. courteous. and respectful manner. reaardless of the comportment of
the complainant. Clearly. verbal or physical abuse is unacceptable and police
assistance should be souaht if a conflict escalates. The towina service providers
shall provide written responses to complaints within five (5) business days of
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receipt. Responses should include identification of the complaint(s)/issue(s),
proposed resolution(s), and corrective measures for the future. The City
reserves the riaht. in its sole discretion, to have the service provider refund all or
any portion of the towina fees to the complainant. as liquidated damaQes, should
the City rule in favor of the complainant.
17. EMPLOYEES OF PERMITTEE
A copy of each employee's Driver License shall also be kept on file by Permittee
and made available to authorized members of the Miami Beach Police
Department.
The Permittee (owners of the company or the officers of the company, if a
corporation) shall be responsible, except as otherwise prohibited by law, for the
acts of their employees while on duty.
18. UNDERWATER RECOVERY SALVAGE DIVERS
Divers must be SCUBA certified. For every diver, duty time shall be computed
from the time of arrival at the scene to the time the vehicle or property is rigged
and hoisted to dry land.
19. COMPETENCY OF APPLICANTS
Pre-permit inspection of the existing or proposed facilities will be made after the
submission of application. Applications shall be considered only from firms
experienced in the towing business, and who can produce evidence that they
have an established and satisfactory record of performance and have available
the required equipment location, size and site and organization sufficient to
ensure that they can properly execute the services required:
19.1 To receive consideration, applicant must identify a base of operation and an auto
pound located within the City of Miami Beach.
19.2 Applicant must have all necessary County and local licenses and permits as may
I
be required to operate the type of requisite business.
20
19.3 The applicant is presumed to be familiar with all laws, ordinances, rules and
regulations that may, in any way, affect the work. Ignorance on the part of the
applicant will in no way relieve it from responsibility.
20. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
20.1 Permittee shall provide standardized, printed, sequentially numbered, City
designed invoice forms listing the nature of the work performed by it, for the
exclusive use of police tows or Parking Department tows. An invoice shall be
made for each and every vehicle towed.
20.2 Permittee shall keep on file for three (3) years copies of all paid invoices,
together with Vehicle Storage Receipts and any and all impound logs filed
sequentially by police case number or Parking Department sequentially
numbered forms. These records shall be subject to inspection by the Chief of
Police, the Director of Parking, or their representatives during normal business
hours.
20.3 Permittee must post a City-approved sign indicating charges authorized by the
City. This sign must include a statement about the accepted methods of
payment and the number and kinds of identification required. At a minimum, the
sign must be in one-inch lettering, with contrasting background, permanently and
prominently posted in the area where the charges are paid to the Permittee. The
area(s) accessible to the public must be well lighted, with provisions to
accommodate seating for members of the public retrieving vehicles from the
Permittee.
20.4 Permittee shall comply with all written procedures as issued from time to time by
the Parking Department, jointly with the Police Department, which will facilitate
the release of towed and/or impounded vehicles to the owner.
21
20.5 Permittee must maintain all storage (pound) and office facilities in a manner
commensurate with all applicable regulations, ordinances, rules, and other laws
governing the operation of same.
20.6 Permittee shall use such security measures as necessary to prevent theft,
vandalism, stripping and dismantling of parts from vehicles in all storage areas
used under this permit.
21. MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE RATES
The City of Miami Beach shall establish maximum rates for providing towing,
removal and storage services for wrecked or disabled vehicles removed from
accident scenes, and non-consensual removal of vehicles from public streets
and public areas within the City of Miami Beach. The Permittee shall not charge
in excess of the maximum rates established by the City of Miami Beach, as
these may be altered, revised, increased, or decreased from time to time.
21.1 MAXIMUM STORAGE RATES PERMITTED UNDER THIS PERMIT:
The first eight (8) hours of storage shall be without charge. Thereafter the
following storage rates shall apply per day:
(1) Inside-Interior
(a) Motorcycles or Scooters
(b) Any vehicle less than 20
feet in length and 8 feet in width
(c) Any vehicle over 20 feet in length
(2) Outside-Exterior
(a) Motorcycles or Scooters
(b) Any vehicle less than 20
feet in length and 8 feet in width
(c) Any vehicle over 20 feet in length
(3) Boat and Trailer (Owner's Unit)
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$12.00
$25.00 $30.00
$40.00
$10.00
$25.00
$30.00
(a) Unit under 20 feet in length $20.00
(b) Unit 21 feet to 35 feet in length $35.00
(c) Unit over 35 feet in length $45.00
21.2 A. Tow Rate Class "A" Tow Truck and $95.00$105.00(2004 )
Class "A" Car Carrier, including: $115.00 (2005)
1. First 30 minutes at the scene
2. Unlocking door
3. Dropping/hooking up linkage
4. Wheel lift equipment
5. Use of Dolly
B. Class "B" Tow Truck including: $125.00 $135.00 (2004)
1. First 30 minutes at the scene $145.00 (2005)
2. Unlocking door
3. Dropping/hooking up linkage
4. Under reach equipment
C. Class "c" Tow Truck including: $155.00 $165.00 (2004)
1. First 30 minutes at the scene $175.00 (2005)
2. Unlocking door
3. Dropping/hooking up linkage
4. Removal of air dams, shafts, or axles
5. Air hookup
6. Under reach equipment
D. Tow Rate Class "0" Tow Truck, including: $180.00 $190.00 (2004)
1. First 30 minutes at the scene $200.00 (2005)
2. Unlocking door
3. Dropping/hooking up linkage
4. Removal of air dams, shafts, or axles
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5. Air hookup
6. Under reach equipment
E. T ow Rate Class "B" or "C" Car Carrier $125.00
including:
1. First 30 minutes at the scene
2. Unlocking door
3. Dropping/hooking up linkage
F. Use of Contractor's Boat Trailer, any length,
including storage, per day:
1. Trailer up to 18 feet in length $ 50.00
2. Trailer 18 to 30 feet in length $ 75.00
3. Trailer over 30 feet in length $150.00
G. Special and additional charges
1. Extra labor or extra waiting time $16.50 per hour
after the first 30 minutes at the scene and prorated
after the 1 st hour in 15 minute increments.
2. Mileage charges: $5.00 per mile; maximum of
$35.00 per tow.
3. Administrative fee: $30.00 maximum per tow.
4. Dollies or Flatbed Services: $35.00 per job.
5. Labor to EnQaQelTow: $20 per tow (2004).
This is not an automatic $25 per tow (2005)
fee and may onlv be imposed
when access to enter vehicle is
required to properlv enaaae/tow
vehicle.
24
Waiting time and extra labor: Cost of any waiting time or extra labor (Le.,
"retrieving", special handling) accomplished within thirty (30) minutes of arrival at
the scene shall be included in the base tow rate. If, and only if, such waiting time
or extra labor consumes more than thirty (30) minutes, an extra waiting time or
extra labor charge per fifteen (15) minutes or any fraction thereof, may be
assessed by the Contractor commencing thirty (30) minutes after arrival at the
scene. The Contractor agrees that any extra waiting time or extra labor charge
authorization should be made by the officer on the scene, whenever possible,
and so indicated in writing on the vehicle storage receipt.
No charges may be imposed other than those specified in the contract rate
structure except as follows: A maximum charge not exceeding $30.00 (not as an
automatic "add-on", but only when required to comply by Florida Statutes) may
be imposed by the Contractor for administrative services, processing of
paperwork, clerical work or title research. Administrative charges refer to and
include verification of Public Vehicle Identification Number; search of vehicle for
ownership information; preparation of paperwork required by Florida Statute;
preparation and mailing of the notification letler(s); and preparation of vehicle for
auction, including notification to owner and/or lien holder as the case may be.
These administrative charges shall not be imposed on vehicles with a "police
hold" until or unless the hold is removed and such administrative services
become applicable. Except in situations where a vehicle has a police hold, if the
registered owner or other legally authorized person in control of the vehicle
arrives at the scene prior to the removal of the vehicle, the vehicle shall be
disconnected from the towing or removal apparatus, and that person shall be
allowed to remove the vehicle without interference upon payment of a
reasonable service fee of not more than one half of the posted rate for such
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towing service for which a receipt shall be given, unless that person refuses to
remove the vehicle which is otherwise illegally or unlawfully parked.
NOTE: STORAGE FOR CITY (CONFISCATED) VEHICLES WITH
POLICE HOLDS IS FREE OF CHARGE TO THE CITY.
22. ROAD SERVICE
(to include jump start, delivery of gas, door opening, tire change when there is no
tow...............$ 20.00
23. RESPONSIBILITY FOR PAYMENT
The motor vehicle owner or legally authorized representative is responsible for
payment of charges imposed by the Permittee in accordance with the permit rate
schedule.
23.1 The City of Miami Beach, Parking Department and the Police Department shall
not be responsible for any charges imposed for towing and storage, or for
securing payments due Permittee upon vehicle release authorized by the City of
Miami Beach, Parking Department or and the Police Department.
23.2 Permittee shall accept the following as acceptable forms of payment for
authorized charges: cash, travelers checks, personal bank checks drawn on a
bank in Dade, Broward, or Monroe Counties, Florida, or credit cards. The
Permittee of vehicle operators recovering vehicles may require two forms of
identification, one of which shall be a picture identification.
23.3 Permittee shall install A TM (Automatic Teller Machines) on premises.
24. FORWARDING REPORTS TO POLICE DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY
MANAGER'S OFFICE
The Permittee shall be responsible for forwarding to the Police Department,
Parking Department, and the City Manager's Office by 3:00 P.M. each Friday the
following:
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24.1 Copies of all Vehicle Storage Receipts for vehicles released the previous week,
together with copy of completed numbered invoice for each vehicle.
24.2 Original log of all calls for service by the Police Department or Parking
Department on a weekly basis.
24.3 Original log of all vehicles with police holds in the custody of the Permittee.
24.4 Original Impound/Notification Log for previous week.
24.5 Original log completed prior to vehicle auctions.
24.6 Copy of Public Notice of auction (10 days prior to auction).
24.7 Original log completed immediately following auction.
All copies shall be legible, and original forms provided as requested.
25. QUALIFICATION OF APPLICANT
Each applicant may be required before the issuance of a permit, to show to the
complete satisfaction of the City Manager, or its designee that he/she has the
necessary facilities, ability, and financial resources to furnish the services as
specified herein in a satisfactory manner, and he/she may also be required to
show past history and references which will enable the City Manager or its
designee to satisfy itself as to its qualifications. Failure to qualify according to
the foregoing requirements will justify the City Manager in rejecting its
application.
26. ASSIGNMENT
The successful Permittee(s) shall not assign, transfer, convey, sublet or
otherwise dispose of this permit, or of any or all of its rights, title or interest
therein, or its or its power to execute such permit to any person, company or
corporation without prior written consent of the City.
27. RELATION OF CITY
It is the intent of the parties hereto that the Permittee shall be legally considered
as an independent Permittee and that neither he nor its employees shall, under
27
any circumstances, be considered servants or agents of the City, and that the
City shall be at no time legally responsible for any negligence on the part of said
Permittee, its servants or agents, resulting in either bodily or personal injury or
property damage to any individual, firm, or corporation.
28. CHANGES IN RULES AND REGULATIONS
If the City of Miami Beach and/or the Police Department deem it necessary to
add, change, or delete Permit Rules and Regulations, it may be done through
recommendation of the City Manager and approval of the City Commission.
Changes in the Rate Schedule requested by the Permittee may be done through
Commission Amendment, on/or about October 1 each year. Thirty 30 days prior
written notice of such request must be given to the City of Miami Beach Parking
Department and the Police Department.
29. INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS
The Permittee agrees that all the records, equipment, personnel, office and
storage facilities will be subject to periodic checks and audits by properly
designated representatives of the City of Miami Beach, without prior notice by
the City of Miami Beach.
30. PRINCIPALS/COLLUSION
By submission of an application, the applicant does declare that the only person
or persons interested in this permit as principal or principals is named therein
and that no person other than therein mentioned has any interest in this permit
and that this permit is made without connection with any person, company or
parties making an application, and that it is in all respects, fair and in good faith,
without collusion or fraud.
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31. GENERAL TERMS
31.1 Any vehicle released at the scene by the Parking Department or Police
Department shall be towed to any location the owner or driver requests within the
limits of Dade County at mileage rates in accordance with the published rates.
31.2 The Permittee shall have no markings on its vehicles, building, or
correspondence that indicates or tends to indicate any official relationship
between the Permittee and the City of Miami Beach or any of its departments.
31.3 Nothing herein will prevent the owner of a vehicle from selecting its own tow
service.
31.4 Permittee shall abide by all applicable State, County and Municipal Laws and
regulations regarding impoundment and storage of vehicles.
32. EMERGENCY TOWING OF CITY OF MIAMI BEACH VEHICLES
Each Permittee shall provide this service for one month at a time, on a rotating
basis. This service is designed to remove and secure vehicles owned by the City
of Miami Beach, which become disabled. Permittee shall be prompt in their
response to City of Miami Beach calls. No charge will be made for towing City of
Miami Beach vehicles. Emergency service is limited to Dade and Broward
Counties.
The Permittee may receive requests for this service from the City Manager or its
designee (City of Miami Beach Police Department dispatcher, Parking
Department Dispatcher, or the Mechanical Maintenance Department dispatcher.
In either case, the dispatcher will give the towing company the following
information:
1. Location of the vehicle, with the nearest street address.
2. Make, year, model and tag number of the City vehicle, together with all
information available as to the condition of the vehicle.
3. Name of the City employee operating the vehicle.
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The Permittee shall tow and return the City vehicle to the Mechanical
Maintenance Garage at 140 MacArthur Causeway. City of Miami Beach
Police Department vehicles may, at the instruction of the Police Officer
operating the vehicle, be towed to the Police Facility at 1100 Washington
Avenue, instead of the Mechanical Maintenance Garage.
33. ABANDONED VEHICLES
Only those abandoned vehicles on public property or public highways, streets,
and right-of-ways shall be removed by the Towing Permit Holder (Permittee) as
directed by the City of Miami Beach Chief of Police or its designee or by a
Parking Enforcement Specialist. It is understood that the Permittee will provide
all plant, labor, materials and equipment, and perform all the necessary work in
the manner and form hereinafter provided to remove abandoned vehicles in the
City.
The term "vehicles" shall include, but is not limited to, automobiles, trucks, truck
bodies, house trailers, etc. The abandoned vehicle may be partly or entirely
dismantled or may consist of only a major portion of the body or framework. For
the purpose of this Permit, a "unit" shall consist of the authorization, removal,
and disposal of an abandoned vehicle.
1. The term "abandoned vehicle" shall refer only to those vehicles which are
properly identified as such by the City Manager or its designee: Chief of
Police and/or Director of Parking. The Chief of Police or designee, or
Director of Parking or designee will furnish the Permittee with a vehicle
storage receipt.
2. The Miami Beach Police Department or a parking enforcement specialist
issues and affixes stickers on abandoned vehicles. After a minimum of
two (2) days, if the vehicle is not removed, it may be towed at the request
of the City of Miami Beach. However, vehicles parked where parking is
30
prohibited or so as to be a hazard or obstruction to traffic may be towed or
impounded immediately. Notwithstanding the above, vehicles properly
parked in one of the City's Residential Parking Permit Districts and
displaying a valid Residential Parking Decal shall not be regarded as
abandoned or stored.
3. The Permittee shall notify by certified letter, sent to the registered owner
and any lien holder, advising of vehicle location, and that the vehicle must
be claimed within thirty-five (35) days and full payment made of
accumulated towing and any other charges permitted under_these
regulations. However, when the City has followed the procedures set
forth in Section 705.103, Florida Statutes, and amendments thereto the
City may elect to dispose of the vehicle as provided in that Section and
shall so notify the Permittee.
4. The vehicle may be stored at the Permittee's storage location or at the
salvage company prior to final disposition of the vehicle in accordance
with all applicable provisions of the Florida Statutes.
5. The Permittee shall pay the City twenty dollars ($20.00) per tow for every
abandoned vehicle that the Permittee tows.
6. The Permittee shall assume and be responsible for, and shall defend,
indemnify and hold harmless the City from and against all claims and
demands of all parties whatsoever for violation of Section 713.78(5),
Florida State Statutes, which states, in part: "Any vehicle which is stored
pursuant to subsection (2) and which remains unclaimed, or for which
reasonable towing or storage charges remain unpaid, may be sold by the
owner or operator of the storage space after thirty-five (35) days from the
time the vehicle is stored therein".e
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7. The Permittee shall pay all judgments obtained by reason of a violation of
Section 713.78, Florida Statutes, as specified in suit or suits against the
City, including all legal costs, court expenses and attorney fees and other
like expenses; and the Permittee shall have the right to join in the defense
of such suits.
34. PERMIT FEE-MONTHLY BILLING
The Permittee shall pay to the City a permit fee in the amount of $25.00 for each
vehicle towed pursuant to this permit and $12.50 for each vehicle that is
disconnected from the towing or removal apparatus.
34.1 The City of Miami Beach shall bill the Permittee by the 10th of each month for all
tows occurring in the previous month. A late charge of $50.00 plus eighteen
percent (180/0) per annum interest charges shall be assessed on all payments
received after the 20th day of the billing month.
34.2 Payments to the City shall be by check sent to the City of Miami Beach Finance
Department (Revenue Section). Checks shall be clearly marked "Police Tow" or
"Parking Department Tow" on the City Invoice Remittance Sections.
35. INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR POLICE TOWING
See Insurance Check List for applicability to this Permit.
a. The Permittee shall be responsible for its work and every part thereof, and for
all materials, tools, appliances, and property of every description, used in
connection with this particular project. He shall specifically and distinctly
assume, and does so assume, all risks of damage or injury to property or
persons used or employed on or in connection with the work and of all damage
or injury to any person or property wherever located, resulting from any action or
operation under the Permit or in connection with the work. It is understood and
agreed that at all times the Permittee is acting as an independent contractor.
32
b. The Permittee, at all times during the full duration of work under this Permit,
including extra work in connection with this project, shall meet the following
requirements:
L Workers' Compensation and Employer's Liability Insurance to meet the
statutory requirements of the State of Florida.
ii. Commercial General Liability Insurance in amounts prescribed by the City
(see checklist for limits) to protect the Permittee in the interest of the City
against all risks of injury to persons (including death) or damage to property,
wherever located, resulting from any action or operation under the Permit or in
connection with the work. Automobile Liability Insurance, including Property
Damage covering all owned, non-owned or hired automobiles and equipment
used in connection with the work.
iiL Any additional coverages required by the Risk Manager as indicated on the
Insurance Check List.
iv. Name the City of Miami Beach as an additional ensured on all liability
policies required by the City. When naming the City of Miami Beach as an
additional insured onto said policies, the insurance companies hereby agree
and will endorse the policies to state that the City will not be liable for the
payment of any premiums or assessments.
v. No change or cancellation in insurance shall be made without thirty (30)
days written notice to the City of Miami Beach Risk Manager.
vL All insurance policies shall be issued by companies authorized to do
business under the laws of the State of Florida and these companies must
have a rating of at least B+:VI or better per Best's Key Rating Guide, latest
edition.
viL Original signed Certificates of Insurance, evidencing such coverages and
endorsements as required herein, shall be filed with, and approved by, the
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City of Miami Beach Risk Manager before work is started. The certificate
must state Bid Number and Title. Upon expiration of the required insurance,
the Permittee must submit updated certificates of insurance for as long a
period as any work is still in progress.
viiL It is understood and agreed that all policies of insurance provided by the
Permittee are primary coverage to any insurance or self-insurance the City of
Miami Beach possesses that may apply to a loss resulting from the work
performed with this Permit.
c. The liability insurance coverage shall extend to and include the following
contractual indemnity and hold harmless agreement: "The Permittee hereby
agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Miami Beach, a municipal
corporation, its officers, agents, and employees from all claims for bodily
injuries to the public in and up to the amount of $300,000.00 for each
occurrence and for all damages to the property of others in and up to the
amount of $300,000.00 for each occurrence, as per the insurance
requirement under the specifications, including costs of investigation, all
expenses of litigation, including reasonable attorney's fees and the cost of
appeals arising out of any such claims or suits because of any and all acts or
omissions or commission of any negligent acts by the Permittee, its agents,
servants, or employees, or through the mere existence of the project covered
by the Permit. The foregoing indemnity agreement shall apply to any and all
claims and suits other than claims and suits arising out of the sole and
exclusive negligence of the City of Miami Beach, its officers, agents, and
employees, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction."
L The Permittee will notify its insurance agent, without delay, of the existence
of the Hold Harmless Agreement contained within this Permit and furnish a
copy of the Hold Harmless Agreement to the insurance agent and carrier.
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iL The Permittee will obtain and maintain contractual liability insurance in
adequate limits for the sole purpose of protecting the City of Miami Beach,
under the Hold Harmless Agreement, from any and all claims arising out of
this contractual (Permit) operation.
d. All policies issued to cover the insurance requirements herein shall provide full
coverage from the first dollar of exposure. No deductibles will be allowed in
any policies issued on this Permit unless approved by the City's Risk
Manager.
e. The Permittee will secure and maintain policies of subcontractors. All policies
shall be made available to the City upon demand. Compliance by the
Permittee and all subcontractors with the foregoing requirements as to
carrying insurance and furnishing copies of the insurance policies shall not
relieve the Permittee and all subcontractors of their liabilities and obligations
under any section or provision of this Permit. Permittee shall be as fully
responsible to the City for the acts and omissions of the subcontractor and of
persons employed by them as he is for acts and omissions of persons directly
employed by it.
f. Insurance coverage required in these specifications shall be in force
throughout the contract term. Should any awardee fail to provide acceptable
evidence of current insurance within seven days of receipt of written notice at
any time during the contract term, the City shall have the right to cancel the
Permit and justify the termination thereof.
g. If bidder does not meet the insurance requirements of the specifications;
alternate insurance coverage, satisfactory to the Risk Manager, may be
considered.
35
36. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
In connection with the performance of this Agreement, the Permittee shall not
discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of
race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, age, national origin, place of birth, marital
status, or physical handicap. The Provider shall take affirmative action to ensure
that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during their
employment without regard to their race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, age,
national origin, place of birth, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.
Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment,
upgrading, demotion, or termination; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff
or termination; rates of pay, or other forms of compensation; and selection for
training, including apprenticeship.
Permittee agrees to adhere to and be governed by all applicable requirements of
the laws listed below including, but not limited to, those provisions pertaining to
employment, provision of programs and services, transportation,
communications, access to facilities, renovations, and new construction.
The American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) Pub.L. 101-336, 104 Stat 327,
42 U.S.C. 12101-12213 and 547 U.S.C. Sections 225 and 611 including Title I,
Employment; Title II, Public Services; Title III, Public Accommodations and
Services Operated by Private Entities; Title IV, Telecommunications; and Title V,
Miscellaneous Provisions.
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973: 29 U.S.C. Section 794.
The Federal Transit Act, as amended: 49 U.S.C. Section 1612.
The Fair Housing Act as amended, 42 U.S.C. Section 3601-3633.
Permittee must complete and submit the City's Disability Non-Discrimination
Affidavit (Affidavit). In the event Permittee fails to execute the City's Affidavit, or
is found to be in non-compliance with the provisions of the Affidavit, the City may
36
impose such sanctions as it may determine to be appropriate, including but not
limited to, withholding assignment of tows, to Permittee under the Agreement
until compliance and/or cancellation, termination, or suspension of the
Agreement, in whole or in part. In the event the City cancels or terminates the
Agreement pursuant to this Section, Permittee shall not be relieved of liability to
the City for damages sustained by the City by virtue of Provider's breach of the
Agreement.
F:\PING\$ALL \SAUL \COMMRESO\TOWORD13.DOC/1/5/04
37
:?oo ~-2 5"~61 'll'l'/oy
.~';,.
TERM:
THE TOWING PERMIT COMMENCES ON MARCH 1, 2004 FOR A ONE (1) YEAR
PERIOD EXPIRING ON FEBRUARY 28, 2005, WITH AN OPTION FOR TWO (2)
ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR PERIODS, AT THE SOLE DISCRETION, OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI BEACH
ALL REQUIREMENTS, PROVISIONS, FEES, AND TERMS OUTLINED IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR POLICE TOWING PERMIT, AMENDMENT NO. 13 (SEE
ATTACHED) IS HEREBY IN FORCE AND EFFECT UPON THE APPROVAL OF THE AWARD OF
THE TOWING PERMIT TO BEACH TOWING SERVICES, INC. AND TREMONT TOWING
SERVICES, INC. BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF THE SAID CITY HAS CAUSED THIS AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED BY
THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA AND ITS CORPORATE SEAL TO BE
AFFIXED, ATTESTED BY THE CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH AND THE SAID
CONTRACTOR HAS CAUSED THIS AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED IN ITS NAME.
~ ~~~.,4)e<:,
V'JOSE RODRiGUEZ, . ,'. PRESIDENT
B'"E" ~qH TOWING SERVICES, INC.
f) () ~'7
NZALEZ, OWNER/PRESIDENT
TOWING SERVICES, INC.
.()\.~:.~~#(t> JORGE M. RODRIGUEZ
,... . if MY C~MiS~SION #?~ 2755871
EXPifiLS: DEieo,' er f,a; 200
~r~o co~"$O ~O(','~'ainIJ5 ,', ~.
'F fin'
~ ,." ,
DERMER, MAYOR ,
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA
r>>v~
RO ERT PARCHE ,CITY CLERK
CITY OF MIAMI B~~
FORM & LANGUAGE
& FOR EXECUTION
F:\PING\$ALL\SAUL\COMMRESO\TOWCON04.DOC
1II-tJP~ 7.-p~
. Attomey~ Date
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
COMMISSION ITEM SUMMARY
(Q
Condensed Title:
A Resolution of the Mayor and City Commission of the City of Miami Beach, Florida, approving
the second of three one (1) year renewal options, commencing on March 1,2004, and expiring
on February 28, 2005; further approving an increase to the maximum allowable towing rates as
outlined in the 13th Amendment of the Rules and Regulations for the Police Department and
Parking Department Towing Permits and establishing provisions for Customer Service Training,
Informational Items, and Complaints/Sanctions.
Issue:
Should each of the two respective towing permits with Beach and Tremont Towing Services be
extended for a one-year term and should the existing permit be amended to include increases in
the maximum allowable rates; providing for customer service training; informational items, and
rovidin for com laints/sanctions~
Item Summary/Recommendation:
The Administration recommends approving the second of three one-year renewal options with both
Beach and Tremont Towing Services, respectively, commencing on March 1,2004 and expiring on
February 28, 2005. The Administration, including the Police Department and the Parking
Department are satisfied with the level of service provided by both towing services. Moreover, both
services providers are the only qualified towing service providers satisfying the minimum vehicle
storage requirements (capacity for storage of 100 vehicles) within the city limits. In addition, the
Administration recommends approving the Thirteenth Amendment of the Rules and Regulations for
the Police and Parking Departments Towing Permits allowing for: (1) increase the existing
maximum allowable towing rate for Class "A", "B", "C", and "D" tows by $10 in 2004 and 2005. For
example, Class "A" tows which are the most common types of tows performed would increase from
$95 to $105 in 2004 and from $105.00 to $115'.00 in 2005; (2) increase Administrative Fee of $25
to $30 for all non-consensual tows. Administrative Fees are assessed to off-set costs for retrieving
vehicle owner information from the State for notification purposes, as required by State Statute; (3)
establish a fee of $20 in 2004 and $25 in 2005 for labor performed only when access to the vehicle
is required in order to properly engage/tow vehicle. This is not an automatic fee; (4) increase indoor
storage fee by $5, from $25 to $30; (5) providing for Customer Service Training/Informational Items,
and (6) Complaints/Sanctions.
Adviso Board Recommendation:
The Transportation and Parking Committee endorsed these recommendations at their regularly
scheduled meetin held on Janua 5,2004.
Financial Information:
Amount to be expended:
Finance Dept.
Source of
Funds:
D
AGENDA ITEM
DATE
R1F
J-J4-o~
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
CITY HALL 1700 CONVENTION CENTER DRIVE MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA 33139
www.ci.miami-beach.f1.us
m
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
From:
Jorge M. Gonzalez
City Manager
Mayor David Dermer and
Members of the City Commission
d ~Lz5
Date: January 14, 2004
To:
Subject: A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING THE SECOND OF THREE ONE (1)
YEAR RENEWAL TERMS WITH BEACH TOWING SERVICES, INC. AND
TREMONT TOWING SERVICES, INC., RESPECTIVELY; COMMENCING ON
MARCH 1, 2004, AND EXPIRING ON FEBRUARY 28, 2005, WITH OPTIONS
TO RENEW FOR ONE (1) ADDITIONAL ONE (1) YEAR PERIOD, AT THE
SOLE DISCRETION OF THE CITY; FURTHER APPROVING THE
THIRTEENTH AMENDMENT TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND
REGULATIONS FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND PARKING
DEPARTMENT TOWING PERMITS; SAID AMENDMENT PROVIDING FORAN
INCREASE TO THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE TOWING RATES; CUSTOMER
SERVICE TRAINING; AND COMPLAINTS/SANCTIONS.
ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the Resolution.
ANAL YSIS
The towing service providers Tremont Towing located at 1916 Bay Road, Miami Beach,
Florida and Beach Towing, located at 1349 Dade Boulevard, Miami Beach, Florida, each
currently have a permit issued by the City to provide towing services to the Police and
Parking Departments. On November 20, 1996, the Mayor and City Commission waived by
a 5/7ths vote, the competitive bidding requirement, and approved an extension of the
towing permits for a period of two years, to expire on November 30, 1998. On November
18, 1998, the Mayor and City Commission approved two (2) additional one (1) year
options, to be renewed at the sole discretion of the City. The second one (1) year option
expired on November 30, 2000. On October 18, 2000, the Mayor and City Commission
waived, by a 5/7ths vote, the competitive bidding requirement, and approved a two (2) year
contract, with three (3) one-year options, to be renewed at the sole discretion of the City.
The Administration, including the Police Department and the Parking Department are
satisfied with the level of service provided by both Beach Towing Services, Inc. and
Tremont Towing Services, Inc. Moreover, both services providers are the only qualified
towing service providers satisfying the minimum vehicle storage requirements (capacity for
storage of 100 vehicles) within the city limits.
January 14, 2004
Commission Memorandum
Towing Services
Page 20f4
Furthermore, at the request of both towing service providers, the Administration has
reviewed the maximum allowable towing rates as outlined in the Twelfth Amendment of the
Rules and Regulations for the Police Department and Parking Department Towing Permits.
The Administration has sought an equitable resolution that would maintain both towing
service providers within the city limits (for customer convenience purposes) and maintain
comparable towing fees with the rates authorized by Miami-Dade County and other
municipalities.
The towing service providers are requesting rate increases to services specified below,
which again are consistent with the rates authorized by Miami-Dade County and other
municipalities.
Service Current Rate
Class" A" $95
Increase Amount
$10 ('04) $10 ('05)
$5
ProDosed Rate
$105 ('04) $115 ('05)
After Hrs Fee* None
$30 (7 days a week)
$30 (increase private tows to $30 &
decrease trigger for Adm Fee from 24hrs
to 12 hrs).
$30 (imposed 8pm to 8am)
Adm Fee $25
Indoor Storage $25
$20 ('04) $5 ('05)
$5
$10 ('04) $10 ('05)
$20 ('04) $25 ('05)
$30
$135/$165/$190 ('04);
$145/$175/$200 ('05)
Labo~* None
Class B, C, & D $125, $155, $180
*
Implemented on 11/1/03.
Not an automatic fee. Imposed only when access to enter vehicle required in order to properly engage/tow
vehicle.
**
Both towing service providers have cited increasing operational costs, including:
. Property taxes on Miami Beach are substantially higherthan other towing agencies
pay in other areas of the County.
. Required vehicle storage lots are neither the highest nor best use of their properties;
however, the City has a requirement that each towing service provider must have
vehicle storage capacity for a minimum of 100 vehicles within the City limits.
. Insurance rates for the area are substantially higherthan other towing agencies pay
in other areas of the County.
Clearly, it is the Administration's intent to provide courteous and efficient towing services at
reasonable rates. The issues raised by the two towing service providers are beyond the
City's control. Vehicle impoundment is a traffic/parking management tool that removes an
unauthorized vehicle so that either public safety is maintained or an authorized vehicle may
take its place. A byproduct is that towing is an educational tool which acts as a disincentive
for illegal parking; however, this disincentive must be kept reasonable. The relocation of
the towing service provider's storage lots to the mainland is an unreasonable burden to
customers financially, logistically, and from a convenience perspective as well. Maintaining
January 14, 2004
Commission Memorandum
Towing Services
Page 3 of 4
existing rates would likely require the future relaxation of the vehicle storage provision
within the city limits in order to allow other towing service providers to participate. This will
effectuate a greater inconvenience to our customers. The added expense of transportation
to the mainland to retrieve an impounded vehicle is more than the towing operator's
proposed increases, not to mention the inconvenience, frustration, and anxiety experienced
in such an ordeal.
The Administration, including the Police and Parking Departments recommend exercising
the second of three one (1) year renewal options, commencing on March 1, 2004 and
expiring on February 28, 2005. The City's TPC (Transportation and Parking Committee)
discussed this item at their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, January 5, 2004, and
the Committee endorsed this recommendation.
Section 21.2 Maximum Allowable Rates
. Increase the existing maximum allowable towing rate for Class "A", "B", "C", and "D"
tows by $10 in 2004 and 2005. For example, Class "A" tows which are, by far, the most
common types of tows performed would increase from $95 to $105 in 2004 and from
$105.00 to $115.00 in 2005. Classes liB", "C", and liD" would increase from $125,
$155, and $180 to $135, $165, and $190, respectively, in 2004 and to $145, $175, and
$200, respectively, in 2005.
. Increase Administrative Fee of $25 to $30 for all non-consensual tows. Administrative
Fees are assessed to off-set costs for retrieving vehicle owner information from the
State for notification purposes, as required by State Statute.
. Establish a fee of $20 in 2004 and increase by $5 to $25 in 2005 for labor performed
only when access to the vehicle is required in order to properly engage/tow vehicle.
This is not an automatic fee.
. Increase indoor storage fee by $5, from $25 to $30.
Section 16.1
Customer Service:
Employees of the towing operators represent the City in their role as service provider. The
towing industry is a challenging one from a customer relations standpoint. Nevertheless, it is our
(City's and service provider's) responsibility to ensure the highest levels of customer service are
provide to our residents, visitors, and tourists. To this end, all employees of the towing service
providers that may have contact with customers and/or the general public must attend and
participate in the City's TACC (Towing and Customer Contact) Training. This training session
will specifically address customer relations training, including diffusing situations,
demeanor/body language, and conflict resolution. All employees of the service providers that
have customer contact will be required to attend this training twice annually (every six months).
In addition, both towing service providers have agreed to provide informational material to the
general public, providing information on frequently asked questions, including: rates, directions
to storage locations, and contact information of both towing service providers.
January 14, 2004
Commission Memorandum
Towing Services
Page 4 0'4
Section 16.2 Complaints/Sanctions:
It is the responsibility of the service provider to address customer service issues in a polite,
courteous, and respectful manner, regardless of the comportment of the complainant. Clearly,
verbal or physical abuse is unacceptable and police assistance should be sought if a conflict
escalates. The towing service providers shall provide written responses to complaints within five
(5) business days of receipt. Responses should include identification of the complaint(s)/
issue(s), proposed resolution(s), and corrective measures for the future. The City reserves the
right, in its sole discretion, to have the service provider refund all or any portion of the towing
fees to the complainant, as liquidated damages, should the City rule in favor of the complainant.
The Administration recommends that the aforementioned amendments be effective on
March 1, 2004. Furthermore, the TPC (Transportation and Parking Committee) reviewed,
discussed, and endorsed these recommendations at their regularly scheduled meeting held
on Monday, January 5, 2004.
CONCLUSION
The Administration recommends that the Mayor and City Commission approve the
exercising of the second of three one (1) year renewal options, commencing on March 1,
2004, and expiring on February 28, 2005; further approving an increase to the maximum
allowable towing rates as outlined in the proposed Thirteenth Amendment of the Rules and
Regulations for the Police Department and Parking Department Towing Permits. Said
amendments are: (1) increase the existing maximum allowable towing rate for Class "A",
liB", "C", and liD" tows by $10 in 2004 and 2005. For example, Class "A" tows which are the
most common types of tows performed would increase from $95 to $105 in 2004 and from
$105.00 to $115.00 in 2005; (2) increase Administrative Fee of $25 to $30 for all non-
consensual tows. Administrative Fees are assessed to off-set costs for retrieving vehicle
owner information from the State for notification purposes, as required by State Statute; (3)
establish a fee of $20 in 2004 and $25 in 2005 for labor performed only when access to the
vehicle is required in order to properly engage/tow vehicle. This is not an automatic fee; (4)
increase indoor storage fee by $5, from $25 to $30; (5) providing for Customer Service
Training/Informational Items; and (6) Complaints/Sanctions.
JMG/CMC/SF
F:\PING\$ALL\SAUL\COMMRESO\TOWREG1304.cme.doc