Spokane City Council Accelerates Amendment on Abandoned Vehicles
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~ During Monday's Legislative Session, the Spokane City Council voted to amend their service contract with Evergreen State Towing in order to address the growing issue of abandoned recreational vehicles (RVs) in the city. The amendment, which was passed through a consent agenda, allows for Evergreen State Towing to provide towing, impoundment, and disposal services for abandoned RVs.

The decision to expedite this amendment was made in response to increasing public safety concerns from constituents. Lisa Gardner, the City Council Communications Director, stated that there has been a noticeable increase in reports of abandoned RVs from citizens to Code enforcement and the Spokane Police Department.

Council Member Michael Cathcart, who co-sponsored the ordinance, expressed his support for reinstating this program after a six-month hiatus. "I've consistently advocated for re-establishing this program throughout its unfortunate six-month hiatus, during which public safety concerns have markedly increased," he said. "I'm very glad to see it reinstated as a necessary and responsible step to protect our neighborhoods."

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Fellow co-sponsor Council Member Zack Zappone also shared his excitement about extending the contract with Evergreen State Towing. "We hear frequently about abandoned cars and RVs, so I'm excited that we were able to extend this contract and find ways to get vehicles picked up sooner," he said. "Residents shouldn't have to deal with abandoned or destroyed vehicles in front of their house for extended periods of time."

The amended contract not only addresses abandoned RVs in all neighborhoods but also makes necessary changes to improve operational efficiency for both Evergreen State Towing and the City. This includes extending the duration of the contract in order for both parties to gather further information and better understand operational constraints that will be utilized to improve operations.

It is important to note that this contract is supplemental to the state program for abandoned RVs administered by the Department of Licensing. The extension will become effective immediately, providing relief to residents and improving the overall safety of the city's neighborhoods.

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