Springfield Introduces Ordinance to Reduce Mandatory Towing Licenses from Four to Two

The Springfield Township Committee introduced an ordinance on Tuesday that would reduce the number of mandatory towing licenses issued by the township from four to two. The ordinance will receive a public hearing on September 8, 2026.

Township Attorney Kraig Dowd explained that the ordinance corrects a citation error in the code and updates the number of required towing operators. "This is narrowing the number of mandatory towing licenses from four down to a more manageable number of two at the recommendation of the police department," Dowd said. He noted that the township may still appoint an alternate if needed.

Police Chief John Cook told the Committee, "We've been functioning very well with two reliable resources. We've had others in the past who weren't very reliable, and we wound up using our two main ones to pick up the slack." The Police Department's recommendation reflects operational efficiency based on actual usage and resource reliability.

The ordinance will be formally considered for adoption following the public hearing on September 8.

Union County Life covers Springfield government, ordinances, and civic announcements. Stay informed about Springfield Township actions on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What ordinance is Springfield introducing?
A: Springfield Township Committee introduced an ordinance that would reduce the number of mandatory towing licenses issued by the township from four to two.

Q: Why is the township reducing towing licenses?
A: The ordinance corrects a citation error in the code and responds to the Police Department's recommendation. Police Chief Cook noted that the department has been functioning well with two reliable resources.

Q: What did Police Chief Cook say about the change?
A: Chief Cook stated, "We've been functioning very well with two reliable resources. We've had others in the past who weren't very reliable, and we wound up using our two main ones to pick up the slack."

Q: Can the township appoint an alternate if needed?
A: Yes. Township Attorney Kraig Dowd noted that the township may still appoint an alternate towing operator if needed beyond the two mandatory licenses.

Q: When will the public hearing be held?
A: The public hearing on this ordinance is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

Q: What happens after the public hearing?
A: Following the public hearing, the ordinance will be formally considered for adoption by the Township Committee.

Q: Who recommended this change?
A: The Springfield Police Department recommended reducing the mandatory towing licenses based on operational experience and resource reliability.

Q: Where can I find more information about Springfield ordinances?
A: Contact Springfield Township or attend the public hearing on September 8. Union County Life covers Springfield government and civic announcements.