Tow Owners Push Back on Proposed Boise Rate Changes

Several Boise, Idaho tow truck operators are urging city leaders to reconsider a proposed ordinance that would make modest changes to towing rates, arguing the update does not reflect the realities of modern towing.

The Boise City Council unanimously voted Tuesday to delay action on the proposal after hearing testimony from multiple towing business owners. The ordinance included minor increases and decreases but did not address what operators described as significant gaps in the city’s current code.

“It’s a significant rewrite,” said Boise Valley Towing owner Stan Deming, who cited the lack of clarity on when billing time begins, limited consideration for specialized equipment, and insufficient compensation for complex recoveries. Deming described a seven-hour motor home tow that required removing personal belongings and disposing of sewage and oil, noting that such jobs can cost companies money.

Act Towing owner Jessica Reeves said the proposal fails to address hazardous materials encountered during tows, including bodily fluids and vehicle leaks.

Several operators also pointed to discrepancies between Boise, Ada County, and Idaho State Police rates. Affordable & Dependable Towing owner Harley Lewandowski said rising expenses have outpaced rate adjustments. “It seems to be working with 20-year-old models,” he said.

Council members postponed a vote until Feb. 10 as they seek a more comprehensive solution. Source: https://www.ktvb.com/