Spanish Fork council reviews impound yard zoning changes amid local towing concerns

The Spanish Fork City Council meeting held on May 20, 2025, focused on the ongoing challenges faced by local towing companies and proposed changes to zoning regulations for impound yards. The meeting began with public comments from representatives of various towing companies, highlighting the difficulties they encounter in maintaining operations within the city.

Sabrina, a representative from ABS Towing, expressed concerns about the current towing rotation in Spanish Fork, which has decreased from eight to five companies due to the loss of three operators. She emphasized that the towing landscape in neighboring cities, such as Springville and Mapleton, has many more companies, which could lead to an influx of applications if the city opens up zoning for additional impound yards. Sabrina warned that this could overwhelm local law enforcement and create operational challenges.

Elizabeth Bettino, representing 3 d L Towing, shared her experience as a small family-owned business that was removed from the towing rotation after losing their yard. She advocated for a zone change to allow her company to continue serving the community, emphasizing the importance of local businesses in maintaining the city's image.

Selena Tienda, co-owner of King of Kings Towing, echoed similar sentiments, detailing her struggles to find a suitable yard for her business. She noted that the limited availability of properties and the reluctance of landlords to accommodate towing operations have made it increasingly difficult for established companies to remain in the area.

Following the public comments, the council discussed a proposal to amend regulations for impound yards in the Industrial 2 Zone. The proposal aims to make impound yards subject to specific conditions rather than permitted uses, addressing the need for more flexibility in accommodating local towing businesses. City staff clarified that the changes would not affect the Industrial 1 Zone, which has different regulations.

The council's discussions highlighted the balance between supporting local businesses and managing the potential influx of new towing companies. The meeting concluded with a motion to exit the public hearing, setting the stage for further deliberation on the proposed zoning changes and their implications for the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges faced by towing companies in Spanish Fork and the city's efforts to adapt zoning regulations to better support local businesses while maintaining community standards. Further discussions and decisions are expected in upcoming council meetings as the city navigates these complex issues.