Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Kenneth Binder, Sheriff
Subject: Amendment to the Agreement with Action Towing for auto towing and storage services
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement with Action Towing to provide auto towing and storage services, extending the term for an additional six months through June 30, 2026, and increasing the amount by $50,000 to an amount not to exceed $249,000.
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BACKGROUND:
In January 2022, the Sheriff’s Office entered into an agreement with Action Towing for auto towing and storage services for seized vehicles held for evidence related to criminal investigations. This allowed for removal of vehicles at the San Francisco International Airport and in San Carlos, Half Moon Bay, and Millbrae through June 2023. Amendments to the agreement increased the contract amount from $90,000 to $199,000 and extended the term through December 2025, allowing for continued service to include the San Mateo County Coastside.
There has been a noticeable increase in the number of RVs along the San Mateo County Coastside. Many of these vehicles are inoperable, do not meet basic living standards, and improperly discharge contaminated water into streets, storm drains, and nearby waterways. The growing presence has created an increasing need for the removal, storage, and potential disposal of RVs. However, these vehicles are significantly more costly to tow, store, and dispose of due to their size, weight, and the hazardous materials they often contain.
DISCUSSION:
The agreement with Action Towing expires December 31, 2025. An amendment to extend the term for an additional six months, through June 30, 2026, and increase the amount by $50,000 to an amount not to exceed $249,000 will ensure continuity of services and allow the Sheriff’s Office sufficient time to complete a Request for Proposals (RFP). Additionally, a revised scope of services will include up to 90 days storage for RVs that were occupied at the time of towing, allowing occupants sufficient time to retrieve personal belongings.
The County Attorney has reviewed and approved the amendment and resolution as to form.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2025-26 Estimated |
|
Percentage of vehicles vetted for removal that are towed |
75% |
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
Approval of this amendment will support the continued removal, storage, and appropriate disposal of inoperable and substandard vehicles, including RVs, along the San Mateo County Coastside. These efforts will enhance public health and safety, reduce environmental contamination, and improve quality of life in affected communities. The provision of extended storage for occupied RVs demonstrates a compassionate approach by providing occupants with adequate time to retrieve personal belongings.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of the amended agreement is January 1, 2022 through June 30, 2026. This amendment extends the term for an additional six months and increases the contract amount by $50,000 to an amount not to exceed $249,000. The cost of this increase will be funded by the County Executive’s Office.