(A) The owner of record of a motor vehicle that is seized or impounded shall be liable to the city of a penalty of $450 in addition to any fees for the towing and storage of the motor vehicle.
(B) Fees for towing and storage are established by the towing company, and not by the city.
(C) A vehicle impounded pursuant to this chapter shall remain impounded until the earlier of the following occur:
(1) The penalty is paid to the city, and all towing and storage costs are paid to the towing company;
(2) A bond in an amount equal to the liability of the owner as herein provided in division (A) of this section is posted with the city and all applicable towing and storage costs are paid to the towing company; and
(3) The vehicle is deemed abandoned, in which case the vehicle shall be disposed of in the manner provided by law for the disposition of abandoned or unclaimed vehicles.
(D) Except as otherwise specifically provided by law, no owner, lien holder, or any other person shall be legally entitled to take possession of a motor vehicle impounded under this chapter until the penalty and all towing and storage costs applicable under this chapter have been paid in full.
(E) Whenever a person or other entity with a lien of record against an impounded vehicle has proof of commenced foreclosure or repossession proceedings, and also provides the city with a hold harmless letter, possession of the vehicle shall be given to that lien holder upon payment of bond and all towing and storage costs.
(Ord. 860, passed 9-8-09)