§ 34-154. Notice required when vehicle removed; hearing.

(a)

When any junked, nuisance or abandoned motor vehicle is removed in accordance with this article, the town shall promptly give written notice of the removal to the owner of the vehicle at his/her last known address, according to the latest registration certificate or certificate of title on file with the state division of motor vehicles, or if the information is not available, according to the best information reasonably available concerning the owner's last known address.

(b)

The notice required by subsection (a) of this section shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. It shall state as follows:

(1)

Why and under what authority the vehicle was removed.

(2)

Where the vehicle is located.

(3)

How the vehicle may be reclaimed (including the payment of any required towing and storage charges).

(4)

That the vehicle may be disposed of if not reclaimed within 30 days.

(5)

The name and phone number of a representative of the town who may be contacted should the owner wish to be heard in the matter as provided in division (c) of this section.

(c)

The town representative specified in division (b) of this section shall hold an informal hearing as soon as reasonably possible upon request of a person whose vehicle has been towed in accordance with this article. If the town representative determines that the vehicle was towed in error, the town shall do the following:

(1)

If the hearing is held before the vehicle is reclaimed, notify the person in possession of the vehicle to release it and (if the vehicle is in the possession of a private towing operator) pay all charges.

(2)

If the hearing is held after the vehicle is reclaimed, reimburse the owner for all charges incurred incident to the towing and storage of the vehicle.

(Ord. No. O-2018-04, 8-13-2018)