I appreciate the opportunity to briefly explain the university’s position on issues related to our towing practices.

Prior to the early 1980s, towing at MSU was done in a way that related more to assuring access to parking. Since then, we have changed both our philosophy and our practice: Essentially, we tow only for purposes of keeping the university operating to best meet the educational needs of students, faculty, researchers and others. The community expects and deserves this approach.

Please keep in mind that towing is done only for egregious violations - fire lanes, handicapper spaces, tow-away zones, etc. - and for multiple repeat offenses. In 1999, 1,696 were towed. The towing charge is $55 - $15 to the university for administering, maintaining, operating and securing the lot and $40 to the private concern. We break even at best.

The on-campus impoundment lot is a convenience for those towed because it, unlike many other places, allows on-campus pickup 24 hours a day. If you went to pick up your vehicle at the private concern, you’d be charged $50 plus $8 a day, plus the cost of travel to it. It’s not open all day, either.

Post-1983, we have towed under the Michigan Vehicle Code. We do, indeed, believe we have been towing legally under state law. Some confusion has arisen. Rather than argue, it seems wise to clarify and simplify, to eliminate the confusion that resulted from having an ordinance and Michigan Vehicle Code provisions addressing the same subject. That’s what our proposed amendment will do. The new ordinance will be the only towing ordinance.

Terry Denbow
vice president for University Relations