Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, the costs of abating any inoperative, dismantled or abandoned vehicle, or parts thereof, including the actual tow costs, plus an administrative fee covering direct and indirect overhead to be set by resolution of the city council, is the joint and several personal obligation of the property owner and the last registered owner; provided, however, that a property owner who establishes lack of responsibility for the presence of the vehicle or parts on the property as permitted by Sections 8.16.040 and 8.16.070 of this chapter shall not be personally liable for the costs; and provided, further, that a last registered owner who can satisfy the requirements of Vehicle Code Section 22524(b) shall not be personally liable for the costs. The director shall take the appropriate steps to collect the costs from those who are liable. (Prior code § 61.06.611)