Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Mark D. Bogen
Department: County Commission
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO DIRECT Office of the County Attorney to prepare any necessary amendments to the Broward County Code of Ordinances or the Broward County Administrative Code to regulate the issue of private companies ticketing vehicles on private property or private lots. (Commissioner Bogen)
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Why Action is Necessary
Required to provide the referenced Board direction to the Office of the County Attorney.
What Action Accomplishes
Directs the Office of the County Attorney to prepare the referenced amendments.
Is this Action Goal Related
No
Previous Action Taken
Summary Explanation/Background
Currently in Broward County private companies are contracted by the owners of parking lots in residential communities, commercial properties, and developments to “police” the use of those lots. These private companies issue tickets and can boot or even tow the vehicles of unsuspecting residents and visitors without warning for even the slightest of infractions. The individuals facing these fines or penalties appear to have no recourse (as these tickets were not issued by any governmental entity or law enforcement agency) and are subject to excessive charges (sometimes costing several hundred or even thousands of dollars). Still worse, if they refuse to pay or try to fight the charge, they face even greater charges, and negative reports sent to credit agencies.
This practice appears to be unregulated with no apparent rate structure or guiding principles and puts Broward County residents and visitors at jeopardy of financial loss.
This item, if approved, would direct the Office of the County Attorney, to prepare appropriate amendments to the associated provisions in the Administrative Code to regulate the practices previously mentioned.
Source of Additional Information
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
TBD