In an effort to bolster public safety and enforce vehicle regulations, the Aurora City Council recently approved an ordinance mandating stricter penalties for vehicles operating without proper registration or insurance. The measure passed with a 6-2 vote, leading to the impoundment of vehicles under specific conditions.
The ordinance stipulates that vehicles will be impounded if a police officer determines they are:
- Being operated by an unlicensed driver
- Not properly registered
- Lacking insurance
Mayor Mike Coffman expressed his support for the ordinance, emphasizing the importance of addressing minor infractions to prevent larger issues. “I’m a broken windows kind of guy. If you don’t deal with the small things, they turn into bigger things. And that’s where we are right now. I hope that the new chief addresses the need for proactive policing. This is designed to send a message,” he commented.
Council Member Stephanie Hancock echoed these concerns, highlighting the need to address issues caused by unlicensed and uninsured drivers. “We have to get a handle on this. As long as people think they can get away with this, they’ll continue to do it. I’m hoping that this ordinance will encourage people to go ahead and get their act together,” Hancock stated.
A resident, speaking in favor of the ordinance, shared a personal experience of an accident involving an uninsured driver, underscoring the financial impact of such incidents. “I had to buy a new car out of my own pocket because the driver involved in the accident had no valid license or insurance,” the resident explained.
While largely supported, some council members voiced concerns about the potential financial burden on residents due to towing fees and the location of impound lots. To address these concerns, the ordinance includes provisions allowing officers discretion to waive impoundment in cases of extreme weather or emergency situations.
Under the new ordinance, impounded vehicles can be held for up to 30 days. Owners can reclaim them if they meet the necessary requirements for a valid driver’s license, insurance, and registration. Vehicles not reclaimed within this period will be auctioned off. The city plans to monitor the program closely and make adjustments as needed to ensure its effectiveness. The stricter regulations aim to promote responsible vehicle operation and enhance safety across Aurora.
