Vote on Decatur's lorry foreclosure ordinance anticipated later this month

DECATUR, Ala. (BNN)-- News 19 is continuing coverage of the City of Decatur's proposed automobile foreclosure regulation. The city board did review the proposition during Monday's meeting, however any changes at this moment stay undetermined.

There was conversation, but no motion on the proposed city ordinance regarding automobile foreclosures.

A handful of individuals stood before the city board Monday evening, asking them to consist of additional language in the ordinance that would secure individuals.

This proposal follows the deadly shooting of Steve Perkins last September. Decatur Police shot Perkins in his driveway in the wee hours of the early morning, while a tow truck operator attempted to repossess his truck.

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Associate Pastor Claudette Owens spoke on behalf of the neighborhood Monday evening. She says they want an ordinance that's ideal instead of fast, which they will meet a few of the council members before they vote on the ordinance.

" It was not quite tight enough when it concerns offenses. It's great if it's an excellent repo…… but what occurs when there's not one? We desire it to be clear that the police department is not the first call – – it is a civil matter, and we desire that to be really clear. There were some considerations too as it associates with tow truck companies… … there are a lot of charges and there are a lot of charges that they wind up sustaining. We don't want that either," Owens said.

' Crippling to the City': Perkins household submits suit, attorney names officers included

Under the proposed regulation, a tow truck operator must notify the Decatur Police Department 30 minutes prior to a prepared car foreclosure. Information about the vehicle and the place of the repossession would need to be provided during this time also.

The driver would also need to call the operator once again within an hour of the tried foreclosure and provide additional details.

It's likewise crucial to keep in mind that the ordinance does not avoid nighttime foreclosures or repossessions from private property.

The council's next work session has been rescheduled for Monday, March 18th. When the council is expected to vote on the ordinance, that's. The work session will begin at 9 am and the city council conference will follow afterwards.