The Wichita City Council voted unanimously in a special meeting Wednesday to approve a contract with three towing companies for impounded vehicles and the fees that will be charged.

The council deadlocked last week on a proposed contract with nine companies out of concerns for low-income families that might not be able to pay fees to recover their vehicles.

The new contract sets up a payment plan that will allow a person to pay a $600 fee over 24 months, and the city’s $30 administrative fee would be reduced to $5.   The city had asked the towing companies for their best and final offers and received eight proposals.  Staff recommended a contract with Kidd Towing, Tow All and Arrow Wrecker.

The payment program would be for eligible vehicle owners who are unable to pay fees from impoundment.   The owner of the vehicle has to be an individual.  Businesses, partnerships, trusts and corporations would not be eligible.   Requests for assistance will have to be made with five days from the day the vehicle is impounded, and the owner must provide proof of being economically disadvantaged.    Individuals can only participate in one payment plan at any given time.   The plan would also allow for a program to waive impound fees for people who are homeless.

Mayor Brandon Whipple said the plan is a responsible way forward, and the program might allow low-income families to avoid making a choice between feeding children and getting the car out of the impound lot.

City staff will continue discussions over the next year to look at new strategies for impound towing.   The city has around 1,700 vehicles impounded each year, for vehicles that present a traffic hazard, abandoned vehicles, and vehicles left behind when the driver is arrested.