(A) If within ten (10) business days of impoundment, any motor vehicle so impounded has not been claimed or a hearing has not been requested to determine the validity of such impoundment pursuant to KRS 82.625, notice shall be mailed by certified mail to the registered owner, if known, and lienholders of record, if any, affording the parties the right within ten (10) days from the date of notice to claim the vehicle or request a hearing pursuant to KRS 82.625. The notice shall state that, if no hearing is requested, the vehicle shall be deemed abandoned unless the charges thereon are paid within forty-five (45) days of receipt of notice.
(B) After forty-five (45) days from the date of notice required by subsection (A) of this section, an impounded motor vehicle shall be deemed abandoned and the vehicle may be disposed of as provided by state statute.
(C) If the vehicle is judged suitable for use, the city may obtain a certificate of registration and ownership from the County Clerk, pursuant to KRS 186.020, and either use the vehicle for governmental purposes or sell the vehicle at public auction to the highest bidder. If the vehicle is not suitable for use, it may be sold for its scrap or junk value.
(D) The city shall possess a lien on a motor vehicle impounded pursuant to KRS 82.625 for all fines, penalties and towing, handling and storage charges imposed thereon. The lien shall be superior to and have priority over all other liens thereon.
(Ord. 2019-5, passed 4-17-19)