Ordinance No. 1284ORDINANCE NO. 1284
AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF VERNON GRANTING A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TOWING
SERVICES AGREEMENT TO MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE,
INC.
SECTION 1. Recitals.
A. The City of Vernon (City) is a municipal corporation and a chartered city of the
State of California organized and existing under its Charter and the Constitution
of the State of California.
B. The City Council of the City of Vernon is authorized by City Charter Chapter 8.9
to grant a franchise in the City of Vernon to any person, firm, corporation, or
other entity and to set terms, conditions, restrictions and limitations by
ordinance.
C. On October 2, 2012, the City Council of the City of Vernon adopted Ordinance
No. 1198 adding Chapter 10.32 (formerly Chapter 4B) to the Vernon Municipal
Code to establish a non-consensual franchise towing fee.
D. On or about April 14, 2022, the Vernon Police Department issued a Request
for Proposals for the City’s Franchise Tow Fee Program.
E. After reviewing the proposals, and after a duly noticed public hearing, it was
determined that the proposal submitted by Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
(Mr. C’s Towing) complies with Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code,
and that Mr. C’s Towing has agreed to comply with all provisions of this Chapter.
F. The City Council of the City of Vernon desires to grant a non-exclusive police
towing franchise to Mr. C’s Towing, subject to the terms and conditions set forth
in the Franchise Towing Services Agreement (Franchise Agreement). The
franchise shall be for a term of three (3) years, if a written Franchise Agreement
has been fully executed by the franchisee and all other requirements of the
Franchise Agreement and Chapter 10.32 have been met by the franchisee.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Vernon herby finds and determines
that the above recitals are true and correct and are a substantial part of this ordinance.
SECTION 3. The City Council of the City of Vernon, pursuant to Chapter 10.32
of the Vernon Municipal Code, hereby approves the Franchise Agreement with Mr. C’s
Towing of South Gate, Inc., in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit
A. The grant of franchise is based on the certifications that franchisee shall comply
with all provisions of Chapter 10.32 and the Franchise Agreement.
SECTION 4. The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby authorizes the City
Administrator to execute said Agreement for, and on behalf of, the City of Vernon and
the City Clerk is hereby authorized to attest thereto.
SECTION 5. The City Council hereby instructs the City Administrator, or his
designee, to take whatever actions are deemed necessary or desirable for the purpose
of implementing and carrying out the purposes of this Ordinance and the transactions
herein approved or authorized, including but not limited to, any non-substantive
changes to the Agreement attached herein.
SECTION 6. Any ordinance or parts of an ordinance in conflict with this
Ordinance are hereby repealed.
SECTION 7. Any provision of the Vernon Municipal Code or appendices
thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such
inconsistencies and no further, is repealed or modified to that extent necessary to
affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 8. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase,
or portion thereof, of this Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of
the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it
would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, paragraph,
sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions
thereof, be declared invalid or unconstitutional. To this end, the provisions of this
Ordinance are declared to be severable.
SECTION 9. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption and publish this ordinance
as required by law.
SECTION 10. This ordinance shall become effective after the thirtieth day
following its adoption.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of August, 2022.
_____________________
LETICIA LOPEZ, Mayor
ATTEST:
LISA POPE, City Clerk
(seal)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________
ZAYNAH N. MOUSSA,
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 1284
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I CERTIFY THAT THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE NO. 1284 was passed and
adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at the regular meeting on August 2,
2022 by the following vote:
AYES: 5 Council Members: Davis, Merlo, Ybarra, Larios, Lopez
NOES: 0
ABSENT: 0
ABSTAIN: 0
________________________________
LISA POPE, City Clerk
(seal)
Ordinance No. 1284
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FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
VERNON AND MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE, INC.
COVER PAGE
Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Responsible Principal of Franchisee: Jerry Brown, General Manager
Notice Information - Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
4421 Mason Street
South Gate, CA 90280
Attention: Jerry Brown, General Manager
Phone: (323) 249-0575
Facsimile: (323) 249-4998
Notice Information - City: City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Attention: Robert Sousa, Chief of Police
Telephone: (323) 583-8811 ext. 114
Facsimile: (323) 826-1483
Commencement Date: Upon the effective date of the City of
Vernon ordinance granting franchise to
Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Termination Date: Three (3) years after commencement date
inclusive.
Consideration: Payment is made by Franchisee to City
pursuant to Section 3 of this Agreement.
Payment is made to Franchisee by City
pursuant to Section 5 of this Agreement.
Records Retention Period Three (3) years, pursuant to Sections 7 and
15.3 herein
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FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON
AND MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE, INC.
This Agreement is made and entered into by and between the City of Vernon (City), a
California charter City and California municipal corporation, and Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate,
Inc. (Franchisee), a California corporation with its principal place of business at 4421 Mason
Street, South Gate, CA 90280 (Parties) to provide towing services to the City.
The Parties agree as follows:
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Franchisee shall provide police towing services to the City of Vernon as set
forth in the City’s Request for Proposal issued on or about April 14, 2022, and titled Request for
Proposals Franchise Tow Fee Program, and Franchisee’s proposal to the City (Proposal) dated
May 5, 2022, Exhibit A, a copy which is attached to and incorporated into this Agreement by
reference.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code, Franchisee has
applied for a Police Towing Franchise (Franchise); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has held a public hearing for the purpose of hearing
persons in favor of or in opposition to the granting of such Franchise; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that Franchisee has demonstrated
compliance with Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code and has agreed to comply with all
provisions of that Chapter; and
WHEREAS, it is required that City and Franchisee enter into a Franchise Towing
Services Agreement (Agreement) for Police Towing services in the City of Vernon; and
WHEREAS, additional conditions have been imposed upon this grant of Franchise.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties do hereby agree as follows:
Section 1. GRANT OF FRANCHISE.
City grants to Franchisee a Police Towing Franchise authorizing Franchisee to engage
in the business of Police Towing as set forth in Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code in
the City of Vernon and to use the public streets and rights of way for such purpose. This grant
is pursuant to the City’s Request for Proposal and to Franchisee’s proposal for the Franchise.
Franchisee is subject to Chapter 8.9 of the Charter of the City of Vernon, the terms and
conditions specified in Chapter 10.32 et seq., of the Vernon Municipal Code, the terms and
conditions specified in all related resolutions, the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and
the representations and assurances in Franchisee’s application for the Franchise.
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Section 2. TERM OF FRANCHISE.
The term of this Franchise granted to Franchisee shall be for three (3) years, commencing upon
the effective date of the City of Vernon ordinance granting the Franchise (the Effective Date)
through the date that is three (3) years from the Effective Date, inclusive.
Section 3. FRANCHISE FEES.
3.1 During the term of the Franchise, Franchisee shall pay a franchise fee to
City in an amount equal to 5% of Franchisee’s gross annual receipts arising from the use,
operation or possession of the Franchise, which fees shall be assessed from the date on which
the ordinance granting this Franchise became effective and in accordance with Section
10.32.080 of the Vernon Municipal Code and any Resolution adopted by the City Council and in
such other amounts as are set forth in any subsequent resolutions that may be adopted by the
City Council at any time during the term of the Agreement.
3.2 The Franchisee shall file with the City Clerk of the City, within three (3)
months after the expiration of the calendar year, or fractional calendar year, following the date of
the granting of this franchise, and within three (3) months after the expiration of each calendar
year thereafter, a verified statement showing in detail the total gross receipts for the Franchisee
derived during the preceding calendar year, or such fractional calendar year, from the provision
of official police towing services within the limits of the City. The Franchisee shall pay to the
City within fifteen (15) days after the time for filing said statement, in lawful money of the United
States, the aforesaid percentage of its gross receipt for the calendar year, or fractional calendar
year, covered by said statement. Any neglect, omission or refusal by Franchisee to file said
verified statement, or to pay said percentage at the times or in the manner hereinbefore
provided, shall constitute grounds for the declaration of forfeiture of this Franchise and of all
rights of Franchisee hereunder pursuant to the procedures set forth in Sections 11 and 12
herein. However, Franchisee has the ability to cure. Further, the City is responsible for insuring
that Franchisee has the appropriate financial institution information for electronic transfer of the
franchise fee in a timely manner. Any delays caused by incorrect financial institution information
shall not constitute grounds for the declaration of a forfeiture of this Franchise.
3.3 Franchisee shall timely pay all required franchise fees to:
City of Vernon
Attention: Finance Director
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Each payment shall be accompanied by a written statement, verified by the Franchisee or a duly
authorized representative of the Franchise, showing in such form and detail as the Finance
Director of the City of Vernon may prescribe, the calculation of the franchise fee payable by the
Franchisee and such other information as the Finance Director may require as material to a
determination of the amount due.
3.4 The first payment of the franchise fee will be due on October 15, 2022,
and payments shall be due monthly thereafter on the 15th day of each month.
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3.5 When Franchisee remits franchise fees to the City, such franchise fees
shall be deemed timely paid only if delivered or postmarked on or before the due date. If fees
are not timely paid, Franchisee shall be subject to suspension or termination of the Franchise
pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement and/or to any other penalties which may be
established and assessed by the City, including, but without limitation, late fees assessed at the
rate of five percent (5%).
Section 4. TOWING SERVICES.
4.1 Franchisee shall provide Police Towing services, as set forth in the City’s
Request for Proposals , and which includes, but without limitation, strictly adhering to the
eligibility requirements, operating regulations, fees schedules, standards for tow truck
equipment, standard rules of operation, response time, inspection, information regarding new or
terminated tow truck drivers, tow driver training, and as set forth in Exhibit A which is
Franchisee’s response to the City’s Request for Proposals. All services by Franchisee shall
comply will all provisions of federal, state and local law and regulation, including, but without
limitation Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code.
4.2 Franchisee understands and agrees that, although the City is granting it a
franchise as a police towing service, the City may requisition towing services from other service
providers as set forth in Section 10.32.120 of the Vernon Municipal Code, or if Franchisee is
otherwise unavailable for any reason, in the reasonable discretion of the Vernon Chief of Police
and including, but without limitation, suspension or termination of the Franchisee.
Section 5. RATES, CHARGES AND PAYMENT.
5.1 The rates and charges for towing and storage in connection with this
Franchise shall be established by the City Council. The prevailing rates prescribed by the
Southern Division of the California Highway Patrol, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the
Los Angeles County Sheriff will be considered when establishing these rates. The rate per
impound shall be $175.00 and the storage charge shall be $52.00 per day, until otherwise
modified by the City Council. A sign showing the approved rates and charges shall be
conspicuously posted in the Franchisee’s tow office and shall be posted in a conspicuous place
in the interior of each tow truck operated by Franchisee. Franchisee shall provide vehicle
owners the option of payment by MasterCard and Visa. Franchisee must provide for after-hours
releases of vehicles, and may collect an after-hour release fee. Any after-hours release fee
shall not exceed one half (½) of the impound fee.
Section 6. REPORTS.
Franchisee shall file a monthly towing report with the Chief of Police along with payment
of its monthly franchise fees. The report shall be submitted to:
Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
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The report shall include the information required by Section 10.32.100(H) of the Vernon
Municipal Code for Franchisee and its subcontractors, certified as true and correct under
penalty of perjury by a responsible owner or official of the Franchisee.
Section 7. FRANCHISEE’S RECORDS.
7.1 The Franchisee shall maintain accurate and complete books and
accounts of all revenues and income arising out of its operations under the Franchise and in a
manner, which conforms with generally accepted accounting principles. Franchisee’s books,
accounts and records, arising out of or related to its operation under the Franchise, shall at all
times be open to inspection, examination and audit by authorized officers, employees and
agents of the City. Such records shall be kept at franchisee’s place of business shown in this
Agreement for receipt of notices.
7.2 Franchisee shall require its subcontractors, if any, who perform Police
Towing services in connection with the Franchise to keep and maintain books of account and
other records showing all business transactions conducted by such subcontractors in
connection with the Franchise. Franchisee agrees to use its best efforts to avoid duplication of
reporting between Franchisee and its subcontractors.
Section 8. TOW VEHICLE AND DRIVER, REPORTING, COMPLIANCE, AND
IDENTIFICATION.
8.1 Franchisee shall maintain on file with the City, a complete and accurate
listing of every vehicle operated by Franchisee for police towing services. Franchisee shall
certify, in a form acceptable to City, that every such vehicle conforms with regional and State
vehicle emission standards (“emission standards”), and shall provide documentation of
compliance on written request of the City. Franchisee understands and agrees that failure to
conform with emission standards may result in suspension, termination or non-renewal of a
Franchise.
8.2 Every vehicle operated by Franchisee and for Police Towing services in
the City shall bear the following identification: Franchisee’s trade name, monogram or insignia,
the Franchise vehicle number, together with Franchisee’s telephone number painted upon both
sides of the vehicle. All lettering mentioned in this paragraph shall be not less than 2-1/4” in
height and not less than 5/6” stroke. The Franchisee agrees to remove the Franchise vehicle
number and all other information within 30 calendar days after the Franchise is terminated or
the vehicle is sold, transferred or taken out of service.
8.3 Franchisee shall file with the Vernon Police Department, the name,
address, date of birth, driver’s license number, and all identification required of any tow unit
driver working for Franchisee, whether as an employee or as a contractor, which information
shall be filed not later than ten (10) business days following the effective date of employment or
engagement. Franchisee shall also notify the Vernon Police Department within ten (10)
business days of the following occurrences: the license suspension of any tow unit driver, and
the end of employment, or engagement, of any tow unit driver with Franchisee.
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Section 9. INDEMNIFICATION OF CITY.
9.1 Franchisee shall indemnify and hold the City harmless from and against
any and all loss, damages, liability, claims, suits, costs and expenses, fines, charges or
penalties whatsoever, including reasonable attorney’s fees, regardless of the merit or outcome
of any such claim or suit, arising from or in any manner related to the services provided or
business conducted under Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code or otherwise pursuant
to this Agreement.
9.2 Franchisee shall indemnify the City, defend with counsel approved by the
City, protect and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees, agents, assigns, and any
successor or successors to the City’s interest from and against all claims, actual damages
(including but not limited to special and consequential damages), natural resources damage,
punitive damages, injuries, costs, response, remediation and removal costs, losses, demands,
debts, liens, liabilities, causes of action, suits, legal or administrative proceedings, interest, fines
and charges, penalties and expenses (including, but not limited to, attorneys’ and expert witness
fees and costs incurred in connection with defending against any of the foregoing or in enforcing
this indemnity) of any kind whatsoever paid, incurred or suffered by, or asserted against, the
City or its officers, employees, agents or the Franchisee arising from or attributable to any
repair, remediation, cleanup or detoxification, or preparation and implementation of any
removal, remedial, response, or closure or other plan (regardless of whether undertaken due to
governmental action) concerning any hazardous substance or hazardous waste at any place
where the Franchisee stores or dispose of solid or hazardous waste. The foregoing indemnity is
intended to operate as an Agreement pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act, 42 United States Code Section 9607, and California Health and
Safety Code Section 25364, and any successor provisions, to insure, protect, hold harmless,
and indemnify the City from liability.
Section 10. INSURANCE.
Franchisee shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain policies of insurance of the types
and in the amounts set forth below, for the duration of the Agreement, including any extensions
thereto. The policies shall state that they afford primary coverage.
i. Automobile Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 combined
single limit, including owned, hired, and non-owned liability coverage.
(1) MCS 90 Endorsement must be attached to the auto liability policy.
ii. Garage Keeper Legal Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less
than $1,000,000 for damage to a vehicle towed, impounded or otherwise
stored by Franchisee.
iii. On-Hook Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less than
$1,000,000 for damage to any vehicle towed by Franchisee or otherwise
connected to any of Franchisee’s tow trucks.
iv. Franchisee agrees to subrogate automobile liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to defend, indemnify and
hold harmless, the City, and its respective employees, agents, and City
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Council from and against all claims, liabilities, suits, losses, damages,
injuries and expenses, including all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees
(“Claims”), which are attributable to any act or omission by the City under
the performance of the services.
v. General Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 per
occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate written on an Insurance Services
Office (ISO) Comprehensive General Liability "occurrence" form or its
equivalent for coverage on an occurrence basis. Premises/Operations
and Personal Injury coverage is required. The City of Vernon, its
directors, commissioners, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers
must be endorsed on the policy as additional insureds as respects liability
arising out of the Franchisee's performance of this Agreement.
(1) If Franchisee employs other contractors as part of the services
rendered, Contractor's Protective Coverage is
required. Franchisee may include all subcontractors as insureds
under its own policy or shall furnish separate insurance for each
subcontractor, meeting the requirements set forth herein.
(2) Franchisee agrees to subrogate General Liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to defend,
indemnify and hold harmless, the City, and its respective
employees, agents, and City Council from and against all claims,
liabilities, suits, losses, damages, injuries and expenses, including
all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees (“Claims”), which are
attributable to any act or omission by the City under the
performance of the services.
vi. Franchisee shall comply with the applicable sections of the California
Labor Code concerning workers' compensation for injuries on the job. In
addition, Franchisee shall require each subcontractor to similarly maintain
workers’ compensation insurance in accordance with the laws for
California for all of the subcontractor’s employees. Compliance is
accomplished in one of the following manners:
(1) Provide copy of permissive self-insurance certificate approved by
the State of California; or
(2) Secure and maintain in force a policy of workers' compensation
insurance with statutory limits and Employer's Liability Insurance with a
minimal limit of $1,000,000 per accident. The policy shall be endorsed to
waive all rights of subrogation against City, its directors, commissioners,
officers, employees, and volunteers for losses arising from performance
of this Agreement; or
(3) Provide a "waiver" form certifying that no employees subject to the
Labor Code's Workers' Compensation provision will be used in
performance of this Agreement.
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vii. Each insurance policy included in this clause shall be endorsed to state
that coverage shall not be cancelled except after thirty (30) days' prior
written notice to City.
viii. Insurance shall be placed with insurers with a Best's rating of no less than
A-VIII.
ix. Prior to commencement of performance, Franchisee shall furnish City
with a certificate of insurance for each policy. Each certificate is to be
signed by a person authorized by that insurer to bind coverage on its
behalf. The certificate(s) must be in a form approved by City. City may
require complete, certified copies of any or all policies at any time.
x. Failure to maintain required insurance at all times shall constitute a
default and material breach. In such event, Franchisee shall immediately
notify City and cease all performance under this Agreement until further
directed by the City. In the absence of satisfactory insurance coverage,
City may, at its option: (a) procure insurance with collection rights for
premiums, attorney's fees and costs against Franchisee by way of set-off
or recoupment from sums due to Franchisee, at City's option; (b)
immediately terminate this Agreement and seek damages from the
Agreement resulting from said breach; or (c) self-insure the risk, with all
damages and costs incurred, by judgment, settlement or otherwise,
including attorney's fees and costs, being collectible from Franchisee, by
way of set-off or recoupment from any sums due to Franchisee.
Section 11. TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION.
The City may terminate this Agreement, without cause, by giving the Franchisee
thirty (30) days written notice of such termination and the effective date thereof. The City may
terminate this Agreement, with cause, by giving the Franchisee (10) days written notice of such
termination and the effective date thereof. Cancellation for cause shall be at the discretion of
the City and shall be, but is not limited to, failure to supply the materials, equipment or service
specified within the time allowed or within the terms, conditions or provisions of this agreement.
Upon notice of cancellation or suspension, the contract holder shall be given five (5) days’
notice to appear before the Chief of Police or designee to show why the contract should not be
revoked, in accordance with Vernon Municipal Code Chapter 10.32.130. The Franchisee may
not cancel this Agreement without prior written consent from the Vernon Chief of Police.
Section 12. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION.
In addition to termination or suspension as set forth in Section 11, above, the Chief of
Police may temporarily suspend any Franchisee without a hearing, whenever the continued
operation by the Franchisee would constitute a danger to public health, safety, welfare or public
morals, including, without limitation, where there is a failure to maintain the minimum levels and
standards of liability insurance or claims reserve or failure to keep in full force and effect any
applicable licenses or permits required by federal, state, local law, or regulation. The notice of
temporary suspension may be personally delivered to the party named and to the address given
on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice address
stated herein, if different, or, mailed by registered or certified mail to the party named at the
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address given on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice
address stated herein, if different. Notwithstanding other notice provisions of this Agreement,
the temporary suspension is effective upon the earlier of either receipt or the expiration of 3
days from the date of mailing. The notice of temporary suspension shall include a notice of the
date and time for termination hearing and all other information required by the Vernon Municipal
Code. The temporary suspension shall remain effective until the decision on suspension or
termination is made unless the suspension is lifted by written notice of the Chief of Police.
Section 13. ACCEPTANCE, WAIVER.
Franchisee agrees to be bound by and comply with all the requirements of Chapter
10.32 and this Agreement. By entering into this Agreement, Franchisee waives, to the
maximum extent permitted by law, Franchisee’s right to challenge the terms of this Agreement
and of Chapter 10.32 under federal, state or local law, or under administrative regulation, as
such laws and regulations exist as of the date of signing of this Agreement.
Section 14. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
14.1 INDEPENDENT STATUS. It is understood that in the performance under
this Agreement, Franchisee shall be, and is, an independent operator, and is not an agent,
contractor, or employee of City and shall furnish services in its own manner and method.
Further, Franchisee has and shall retain the right to exercise full control over the employment,
direction, compensation and discharge of all persons employed by Franchisee in its business
operations. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for, and shall indemnify, defend and save
City harmless from all matters relating to the payment of its employees, including compliance
with social security, withholding and all other wages, salaries, benefits, taxes, exactions, and
regulations of any nature whatsoever.
14.2 FRANCHISE NOT AGENT. Franchisee and its subcontractors shall have
no authority, express or implied, to act on behalf of or bind the City in any capacity whatsoever
as agents or otherwise.
14.3 WAIVER. The City’s waiver of any term, condition, breach or default of
this Agreement shall not be considered to be a waiver of any other term, condition, default or
breach, nor of a subsequent breach of the one waived.
14.4 NO ASSIGNMENT. The Franchisee shall not assign or transfer any
interest in this Agreement without the express prior written consent and approval of City
Council.
14.5 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Franchisee shall comply with all Federal,
State, County and City laws, ordinances, resolutions, rules and regulations, which are, as
amended from time to time, incorporated herein and applicable to the performance hereof.
14.6 ATTORNEY’S FEES. If any action at law or in equity is brought to
enforce or interpret the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
reasonable attorney’s fees, costs and necessary disbursements in addition to any other relief to
which such party may be entitled.
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14.7 INTERPRETATION.
14.7.1 Applicable Law. This Agreement, and the rights and duties of the
parties hereunder (both procedural and substantive), shall be governed and construed
according to the laws of the State of California.
14.7.2 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including any Exhibits
attached hereto and any documents explicitly referenced herein, constitutes the entire
agreement and understanding between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes
all prior or contemporaneous negotiations, representations, understandings, correspondence,
documentation and agreements (written or oral).
14.7.3 Written Amendment. This Agreement may only be changed by
written amendment signed by Franchisee and the City Administrator or other authorized
representative of the City, subject to any requisite authorization by the City Council. Any oral
representations or modifications concerning this Agreement shall be of no force or effect.
14.7.4 Severability. If any provision in this Agreement is held by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, void, or unenforceable, such portion shall be
deemed severed from this Agreement, and the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue
in full force and effect as fully as though such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable portion had never
been part of this Agreement.
14.7.5 Choice of Forum. The parties hereby agree that this Agreement is
to be enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California, is entered into and is to be
performed in the City of Vernon and that all claims or controversies arising out of or related to
performance under this Agreement shall be submitted to and resolved in a forum within the
County of Los Angeles at a place to be determined by the rules of the forum.
14.7.6 Order of Precedence. In case of conflict between the terms of this
Agreement and the terms contained in any document attached as an Exhibit or otherwise
incorporated by reference, the order of precedence is as follows: Charter the City of Vernon, the
Vernon Municipal Code, the ordinance granting this Franchise, resolutions of the City of Vernon,
this Agreement, the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services, and
Franchisee’s Response to the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services.
14.8 AUTHORITY OF FRANCHISEE. The Franchisee hereby represents and
warrants to the City that the Franchisee has the right, power, legal capacity and authority to
enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement, and its execution of this Agreement
has been duly authorized.
Section 15. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES.
15.1 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PRACTICES.
Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this
Agreement, Franchisee and any other parties with whom it may subcontract shall adhere to
equal opportunity employment practices to assure that applicants and employees are treated
equally and are not discriminated against because of their race, religion, color, national origin,
ancestry, disability, sex, age, medical condition, marital status. Franchisee further certifies that
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it will not maintain any segregated facilities. Franchisee further agrees to comply with The
Equal Employment Opportunity Practices provisions as set forth in Exhibit B.
15.2 BUSINESS LICENSES. Franchisee shall obtain, and pay any and all
costs associated therewith, any Vernon Business License, which may be required by the
Vernon Municipal Code and all permits, and licenses applicable to Franchisee’s operations
under this Franchise, which are required of Franchisee by any governmental agency.
15.3 MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION OF RECORDS.
The City, or its authorized auditors or representatives, shall have access to and
the right to audit and reproduce any of the Franchisee’s records to the extent the City deems
necessary to insure it is receiving all money to which it is entitled under the Agreement and/or is
paying only the amounts to which Franchisee is properly entitled under the Agreement or for
other purposes relating to the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain and preserve all such records for a period of at
least three (3) years after termination of the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain all such records in the City of Vernon. If not, the
Franchisee shall, upon request, promptly deliver the records to the City of Vernon or reimburse
the City for all reasonable and extra costs incurred in conducting the audit at a location other
than the City of Vernon, including, but not limited to, such additional (out of the City) expenses
for personal, salaries, private auditors, travel, lodging, meals and overhead.
15.4 CONFLICT. Franchisee hereby represents warrants and certifies that no
member, officer or employee of the Franchisee is a director, officer or employee of the City of
Vernon, or a member of any of its boards, commissions or committees, except to the extent
permitted by law.
Section 16. PREVAILING WAGES
The provisions of California Labor Code 1770, et seq., regarding the payment of
prevailing wages on public works, and related regulations, apply to all City contracts. In addition,
the selected tow service companies and/or any subcontractor must be currently registered and
qualified (including payment of any required fee) with the State Department of Industrial
Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 (with limited exceptions for bid purposes only
under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)). This project is subject to compliance monitoring and
enforcement by the State Department of Industrial Relations.
Section 17. NOTICES.
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all notices required by this Agreement
or by Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code shall be given by personal service or by
deposit in the United States mail, postage pre-paid and return receipt requested, addressed to
the parties as follows:
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Page 12 of 15
To City: Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Copies to: Director of Finance
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Attention: Jerry Brown, General Manager
4421 Mason Street
South Gate, CA 90280
Notice shall be deemed effective on the date personally served or, if mailed, three days the date
deposited in the mail.
[Signatures Begin on Next Page].
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date set forth below.
City of Vernon, a California charter City
and California municipal corporation
DATED: _____________________
____________________________
Carlos Fandino, City Administrator
Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc., a
California corporation
DATED: ______________________
By:
Name: Kurtis McElroy
Title: President
ATTEST:
Lisa Pope, City Clerk
By:
Name: Jerry Brown
Title: General Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Zaynah N. Moussa,
Interim City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
FRANCHISEE'S PROPOSAL
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EXHIBIT B
THE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PRACTICES PROVISIONS
A. Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this Agreement, the
Franchisee and each subcontractor shall adhere to equal opportunity employment practices
to assure that applicants and employees are treated equally and are not discriminated
against because of their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap,
sex, or age. Franchisee further certifies that it will not maintain any segregated facilities.
B. Franchisee agrees that it shall, in all solicitations or advertisements for applicants for
employment placed by or on behalf of Franchisee, state that it is an "Equal Opportunity
Employer" or that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap, sex or age.
C. Franchisee agrees that it shall, if requested to do so by the City, certify that it has not, in the
performance of this Agreement, discriminated against applicants or employees because of
their membership in a protected class.
D. Franchisee agrees to provide the City with access to, and, if requested to do so by City,
through its awarding authority, provide copies of all of its records pertaining or relating to its
employment practices, except to the extent such records or portions of such records are
confidential or privileged under state or federal law.
E. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed in any manner as to require or
permit any act which is prohibited by law.
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City Council Agenda Item Report
Submitted by: Sandra Dolson
Submitting Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: August 2, 2022
SUBJECT
Franchise Towing Fee Agreements
Recommendation:
A. Conduct second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1284 granting to Mr. C's Towing of
South Gate, Inc., a franchise towing services agreement; and
B. Conduct second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1285 granting Towwerks, LLC. (dba
Viertel's Central / Northeast Division), a franchise towing services agreement.
Background:
At the July 19, 2022 Regular City Council meeting, the Vernon City Council introduced and
conducted first reading of Ordinance Nos. 1284 and 1285 granting Mr. C's Towing of South
Gate, Inc. and Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel's Central / Northeast Division) franchise towing
services agreements.
The ordinance summaries were posted on the City's website on July 20, 2022, and will be
published pursuant to legal requirements. Staff requests the City Council conduct second
reading and adopt Ordinance Nos. 1284 and 1285.
Fiscal Impact:
The ordinance summaries will be published pursuant to legal requirements. Adequate funds
are available in the Publication/Advertisement Account No. 011.1003.550000.
Attachments:
1. Ordinance No. 1284
2. Ordinance No. 1285
3. Ordinance 1284 Proof of Publication
4. Ordinance 1285 Proof of Publication
ORDINANCE NO. 1284
AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF VERNON GRANTING A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TOWING
SERVICES AGREEMENT TO MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE,
INC.
SECTION 1. Recitals.
A. The City of Vernon (City) is a municipal corporation and a chartered city of the
State of California organized and existing under its Charter and the Constitution
of the State of California.
B. The City Council of the City of Vernon is authorized by City Charter Chapter 8.9
to grant a franchise in the City of Vernon to any person, firm, corporation, or
other entity and to set terms, conditions, restrictions and limitations by
ordinance.
C. On October 2, 2012, the City Council of the City of Vernon adopted Ordinance
No. 1198 adding Chapter 10.32 (formerly Chapter 4B) to the Vernon Municipal
Code to establish a non-consensual franchise towing fee.
D. On or about April 14, 2022, the Vernon Police Department issued a Request
for Proposals for the City’s Franchise Tow Fee Program.
E. After reviewing the proposals, and after a duly noticed public hearing, it was
determined that the proposal submitted by Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
(Mr. C’s Towing) complies with Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code,
and that Mr. C’s Towing has agreed to comply with all provisions of this Chapter.
F. The City Council of the City of Vernon desires to grant a non-exclusive police
towing franchise to Mr. C’s Towing, subject to the terms and conditions set forth
in the Franchise Towing Services Agreement (Franchise Agreement). The
franchise shall be for a term of three (3) years, if a written Franchise Agreement
has been fully executed by the franchisee and all other requirements of the
Franchise Agreement and Chapter 10.32 have been met by the franchisee.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Vernon herby finds and determines
that the above recitals are true and correct and are a substantial part of this ordinance.
SECTION 3. The City Council of the City of Vernon, pursuant to Chapter 10.32
of the Vernon Municipal Code, hereby approves the Franchise Agreement with Mr. C’s
Towing of South Gate, Inc., in substantially the same form attached hereto as Exhibit
A. The grant of franchise is based on the certifications that franchisee shall comply
with all provisions of Chapter 10.32 and the Franchise Agreement.
SECTION 4. The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby authorizes the City
Administrator to execute said Agreement for, and on behalf of, the City of Vernon and
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the City Clerk is hereby authorized to attest thereto.
SECTION 5. The City Council hereby instructs the City Administrator, or his
designee, to take whatever actions are deemed necessary or desirable for the purpose
of implementing and carrying out the purposes of this Ordinance and the transactions
herein approved or authorized, including but not limited to, any non-substantive
changes to the Agreement attached herein.
SECTION 6. Any ordinance or parts of an ordinance in conflict with this
Ordinance are hereby repealed.
SECTION 7. Any provision of the Vernon Municipal Code or appendices
thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such
inconsistencies and no further, is repealed or modified to that extent necessary to
affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 8. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase,
or portion thereof, of this Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of
the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it
would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, paragraph,
sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions
thereof, be declared invalid or unconstitutional. To this end, the provisions of this
Ordinance are declared to be severable.
SECTION 9. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption and publish this ordinance
as required by law.
SECTION 10. This ordinance shall become effective after the thirtieth day
following its adoption.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of August, 2022.
_____________________
LETICIA LOPEZ, Mayor
ATTEST:
LISA POPE, City Clerk
(seal)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________
ZAYNAH N. MOUSSA,
City Attorney
FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
VERNON AND MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE, INC.
COVER PAGE
Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Responsible Principal of Franchisee: Jerry Brown, General Manager
Notice Information - Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
4421 Mason Street
South Gate, CA 90280
Attention: Jerry Brown, General Manager
Phone: (323) 249-0575
Facsimile: (323) 249-4998
Notice Information - City: City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Attention: Robert Sousa, Chief of Police
Telephone: (323) 583-8811 ext. 114
Facsimile: (323) 826-1483
Commencement Date: Upon the effective date of the City of
Vernon ordinance granting franchise to
Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Termination Date: Three (3) years after commencement date
inclusive.
Consideration: Payment is made by Franchisee to City
pursuant to Section 3 of this Agreement.
Payment is made to Franchisee by City
pursuant to Section 5 of this Agreement.
Records Retention Period Three (3) years, pursuant to Sections 7 and
15.3 herein
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FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON
AND MR. C’S TOWING OF SOUTH GATE, INC.
This Agreement is made and entered into by and between the City of Vernon (City), a
California charter City and California municipal corporation, and Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate,
Inc. (Franchisee), a California corporation with its principal place of business at 4421 Mason
Street, South Gate, CA 90280 (Parties) to provide towing services to the City.
The Parties agree as follows:
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Franchisee shall provide police towing services to the City of Vernon as set
forth in the City’s Request for Proposal issued on or about April 14, 2022, and titled Request for
Proposals Franchise Tow Fee Program, and Franchisee’s proposal to the City (Proposal) dated
May 5, 2022, Exhibit A, a copy which is attached to and incorporated into this Agreement by
reference.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code, Franchisee has
applied for a Police Towing Franchise (Franchise); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has held a public hearing for the purpose of hearing
persons in favor of or in opposition to the granting of such Franchise; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that Franchisee has demonstrated
compliance with Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code and has agreed to comply with all
provisions of that Chapter; and
WHEREAS, it is required that City and Franchisee enter into a Franchise Towing
Services Agreement (Agreement) for Police Towing services in the City of Vernon; and
WHEREAS, additional conditions have been imposed upon this grant of Franchise.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties do hereby agree as follows:
Section 1. GRANT OF FRANCHISE.
City grants to Franchisee a Police Towing Franchise authorizing Franchisee to engage
in the business of Police Towing as set forth in Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code in
the City of Vernon and to use the public streets and rights of way for such purpose. This grant
is pursuant to the City’s Request for Proposal and to Franchisee’s proposal for the Franchise.
Franchisee is subject to Chapter 8.9 of the Charter of the City of Vernon, the terms and
conditions specified in Chapter 10.32 et seq., of the Vernon Municipal Code, the terms and
conditions specified in all related resolutions, the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and
the representations and assurances in Franchisee’s application for the Franchise.
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Section 2. TERM OF FRANCHISE.
The term of this Franchise granted to Franchisee shall be for three (3) years, commencing upon
the effective date of the City of Vernon ordinance granting the Franchise (the Effective Date)
through the date that is three (3) years from the Effective Date, inclusive.
Section 3. FRANCHISE FEES.
3.1 During the term of the Franchise, Franchisee shall pay a franchise fee to
City in an amount equal to 5% of Franchisee’s gross annual receipts arising from the use,
operation or possession of the Franchise, which fees shall be assessed from the date on which
the ordinance granting this Franchise became effective and in accordance with Section
10.32.080 of the Vernon Municipal Code and any Resolution adopted by the City Council and in
such other amounts as are set forth in any subsequent resolutions that may be adopted by the
City Council at any time during the term of the Agreement.
3.2 The Franchisee shall file with the City Clerk of the City, within three (3)
months after the expiration of the calendar year, or fractional calendar year, following the date of
the granting of this franchise, and within three (3) months after the expiration of each calendar
year thereafter, a verified statement showing in detail the total gross receipts for the Franchisee
derived during the preceding calendar year, or such fractional calendar year, from the provision
of official police towing services within the limits of the City. The Franchisee shall pay to the
City within fifteen (15) days after the time for filing said statement, in lawful money of the United
States, the aforesaid percentage of its gross receipt for the calendar year, or fractional calendar
year, covered by said statement. Any neglect, omission or refusal by Franchisee to file said
verified statement, or to pay said percentage at the times or in the manner hereinbefore
provided, shall constitute grounds for the declaration of forfeiture of this Franchise and of all
rights of Franchisee hereunder pursuant to the procedures set forth in Sections 11 and 12
herein. However, Franchisee has the ability to cure. Further, the City is responsible for insuring
that Franchisee has the appropriate financial institution information for electronic transfer of the
franchise fee in a timely manner. Any delays caused by incorrect financial institution information
shall not constitute grounds for the declaration of a forfeiture of this Franchise.
3.3 Franchisee shall timely pay all required franchise fees to:
City of Vernon
Attention: Finance Director
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Each payment shall be accompanied by a written statement, verified by the Franchisee or a duly
authorized representative of the Franchise, showing in such form and detail as the Finance
Director of the City of Vernon may prescribe, the calculation of the franchise fee payable by the
Franchisee and such other information as the Finance Director may require as material to a
determination of the amount due.
3.4 The first payment of the franchise fee will be due on October 15, 2022,
and payments shall be due monthly thereafter on the 15th day of each month.
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3.5 When Franchisee remits franchise fees to the City, such franchise fees
shall be deemed timely paid only if delivered or postmarked on or before the due date. If fees
are not timely paid, Franchisee shall be subject to suspension or termination of the Franchise
pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement and/or to any other penalties which may be
established and assessed by the City, including, but without limitation, late fees assessed at the
rate of five percent (5%).
Section 4. TOWING SERVICES.
4.1 Franchisee shall provide Police Towing services, as set forth in the City’s
Request for Proposals , and which includes, but without limitation, strictly adhering to the
eligibility requirements, operating regulations, fees schedules, standards for tow truck
equipment, standard rules of operation, response time, inspection, information regarding new or
terminated tow truck drivers, tow driver training, and as set forth in Exhibit A which is
Franchisee’s response to the City’s Request for Proposals. All services by Franchisee shall
comply will all provisions of federal, state and local law and regulation, including, but without
limitation Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code.
4.2 Franchisee understands and agrees that, although the City is granting it a
franchise as a police towing service, the City may requisition towing services from other service
providers as set forth in Section 10.32.120 of the Vernon Municipal Code, or if Franchisee is
otherwise unavailable for any reason, in the reasonable discretion of the Vernon Chief of Police
and including, but without limitation, suspension or termination of the Franchisee.
Section 5. RATES, CHARGES AND PAYMENT.
5.1 The rates and charges for towing and storage in connection with this
Franchise shall be established by the City Council. The prevailing rates prescribed by the
Southern Division of the California Highway Patrol, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the
Los Angeles County Sheriff will be considered when establishing these rates. The rate per
impound shall be $175.00 and the storage charge shall be $52.00 per day, until otherwise
modified by the City Council. A sign showing the approved rates and charges shall be
conspicuously posted in the Franchisee’s tow office and shall be posted in a conspicuous place
in the interior of each tow truck operated by Franchisee. Franchisee shall provide vehicle
owners the option of payment by MasterCard and Visa. Franchisee must provide for after-hours
releases of vehicles, and may collect an after-hour release fee. Any after-hours release fee
shall not exceed one half (½) of the impound fee.
Section 6. REPORTS.
Franchisee shall file a monthly towing report with the Chief of Police along with payment
of its monthly franchise fees. The report shall be submitted to:
Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
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The report shall include the information required by Section 10.32.100(H) of the Vernon
Municipal Code for Franchisee and its subcontractors, certified as true and correct under
penalty of perjury by a responsible owner or official of the Franchisee.
Section 7. FRANCHISEE’S RECORDS.
7.1 The Franchisee shall maintain accurate and complete books and
accounts of all revenues and income arising out of its operations under the Franchise and in a
manner, which conforms with generally accepted accounting principles. Franchisee’s books,
accounts and records, arising out of or related to its operation under the Franchise, shall at all
times be open to inspection, examination and audit by authorized officers, employees and
agents of the City. Such records shall be kept at franchisee’s place of business shown in this
Agreement for receipt of notices.
7.2 Franchisee shall require its subcontractors, if any, who perform Police
Towing services in connection with the Franchise to keep and maintain books of account and
other records showing all business transactions conducted by such subcontractors in
connection with the Franchise. Franchisee agrees to use its best efforts to avoid duplication of
reporting between Franchisee and its subcontractors.
Section 8. TOW VEHICLE AND DRIVER, REPORTING, COMPLIANCE, AND
IDENTIFICATION.
8.1 Franchisee shall maintain on file with the City, a complete and accurate
listing of every vehicle operated by Franchisee for police towing services. Franchisee shall
certify, in a form acceptable to City, that every such vehicle conforms with regional and State
vehicle emission standards (“emission standards”), and shall provide documentation of
compliance on written request of the City. Franchisee understands and agrees that failure to
conform with emission standards may result in suspension, termination or non-renewal of a
Franchise.
8.2 Every vehicle operated by Franchisee and for Police Towing services in
the City shall bear the following identification: Franchisee’s trade name, monogram or insignia,
the Franchise vehicle number, together with Franchisee’s telephone number painted upon both
sides of the vehicle. All lettering mentioned in this paragraph shall be not less than 2-1/4” in
height and not less than 5/6” stroke. The Franchisee agrees to remove the Franchise vehicle
number and all other information within 30 calendar days after the Franchise is terminated or
the vehicle is sold, transferred or taken out of service.
8.3 Franchisee shall file with the Vernon Police Department, the name,
address, date of birth, driver’s license number, and all identification required of any tow unit
driver working for Franchisee, whether as an employee or as a contractor, which information
shall be filed not later than ten (10) business days following the effective date of employment or
engagement. Franchisee shall also notify the Vernon Police Department within ten (10)
business days of the following occurrences: the license suspension of any tow unit driver, and
the end of employment, or engagement, of any tow unit driver with Franchisee.
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Section 9. INDEMNIFICATION OF CITY.
9.1 Franchisee shall indemnify and hold the City harmless from and against
any and all loss, damages, liability, claims, suits, costs and expenses, fines, charges or
penalties whatsoever, including reasonable attorney’s fees, regardless of the merit or outcome
of any such claim or suit, arising from or in any manner related to the services provided or
business conducted under Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code or otherwise pursuant
to this Agreement.
9.2 Franchisee shall indemnify the City, defend with counsel approved by the
City, protect and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees, agents, assigns, and any
successor or successors to the City’s interest from and against all claims, actual damages
(including but not limited to special and consequential damages), natural resources damage,
punitive damages, injuries, costs, response, remediation and removal costs, losses, demands,
debts, liens, liabilities, causes of action, suits, legal or administrative proceedings, interest, fines
and charges, penalties and expenses (including, but not limited to, attorneys’ and expert witness
fees and costs incurred in connection with defending against any of the foregoing or in enforcing
this indemnity) of any kind whatsoever paid, incurred or suffered by, or asserted against, the
City or its officers, employees, agents or the Franchisee arising from or attributable to any
repair, remediation, cleanup or detoxification, or preparation and implementation of any
removal, remedial, response, or closure or other plan (regardless of whether undertaken due to
governmental action) concerning any hazardous substance or hazardous waste at any place
where the Franchisee stores or dispose of solid or hazardous waste. The foregoing indemnity is
intended to operate as an Agreement pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act, 42 United States Code Section 9607, and California Health and
Safety Code Section 25364, and any successor provisions, to insure, protect, hold harmless,
and indemnify the City from liability.
Section 10. INSURANCE.
Franchisee shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain policies of insurance of the types
and in the amounts set forth below, for the duration of the Agreement, including any extensions
thereto. The policies shall state that they afford primary coverage.
i. Automobile Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 combined
single limit, including owned, hired, and non-owned liability coverage.
(1) MCS 90 Endorsement must be attached to the auto liability policy.
ii. Garage Keeper Legal Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less
than $1,000,000 for damage to a vehicle towed, impounded or otherwise
stored by Franchisee.
iii. On-Hook Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less than
$1,000,000 for damage to any vehicle towed by Franchisee or otherwise
connected to any of Franchisee’s tow trucks.
iv. Franchisee agrees to subrogate automobile liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to defend, indemnify and
hold harmless, the City, and its respective employees, agents, and City
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Council from and against all claims, liabilities, suits, losses, damages,
injuries and expenses, including all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees
(“Claims”), which are attributable to any act or omission by the City under
the performance of the services.
v. General Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 per
occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate written on an Insurance Services
Office (ISO) Comprehensive General Liability "occurrence" form or its
equivalent for coverage on an occurrence basis. Premises/Operations
and Personal Injury coverage is required. The City of Vernon, its
directors, commissioners, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers
must be endorsed on the policy as additional insureds as respects liability
arising out of the Franchisee's performance of this Agreement.
(1) If Franchisee employs other contractors as part of the services
rendered, Contractor's Protective Coverage is
required. Franchisee may include all subcontractors as insureds
under its own policy or shall furnish separate insurance for each
subcontractor, meeting the requirements set forth herein.
(2) Franchisee agrees to subrogate General Liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to defend,
indemnify and hold harmless, the City, and its respective
employees, agents, and City Council from and against all claims,
liabilities, suits, losses, damages, injuries and expenses, including
all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees (“Claims”), which are
attributable to any act or omission by the City under the
performance of the services.
vi. Franchisee shall comply with the applicable sections of the California
Labor Code concerning workers' compensation for injuries on the job. In
addition, Franchisee shall require each subcontractor to similarly maintain
workers’ compensation insurance in accordance with the laws for
California for all of the subcontractor’s employees. Compliance is
accomplished in one of the following manners:
(1) Provide copy of permissive self-insurance certificate approved by
the State of California; or
(2) Secure and maintain in force a policy of workers' compensation
insurance with statutory limits and Employer's Liability Insurance with a
minimal limit of $1,000,000 per accident. The policy shall be endorsed to
waive all rights of subrogation against City, its directors, commissioners,
officers, employees, and volunteers for losses arising from performance
of this Agreement; or
(3) Provide a "waiver" form certifying that no employees subject to the
Labor Code's Workers' Compensation provision will be used in
performance of this Agreement.
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vii. Each insurance policy included in this clause shall be endorsed to state
that coverage shall not be cancelled except after thirty (30) days' prior
written notice to City.
viii. Insurance shall be placed with insurers with a Best's rating of no less than
A-VIII.
ix. Prior to commencement of performance, Franchisee shall furnish City
with a certificate of insurance for each policy. Each certificate is to be
signed by a person authorized by that insurer to bind coverage on its
behalf. The certificate(s) must be in a form approved by City. City may
require complete, certified copies of any or all policies at any time.
x. Failure to maintain required insurance at all times shall constitute a
default and material breach. In such event, Franchisee shall immediately
notify City and cease all performance under this Agreement until further
directed by the City. In the absence of satisfactory insurance coverage,
City may, at its option: (a) procure insurance with collection rights for
premiums, attorney's fees and costs against Franchisee by way of set-off
or recoupment from sums due to Franchisee, at City's option; (b)
immediately terminate this Agreement and seek damages from the
Agreement resulting from said breach; or (c) self-insure the risk, with all
damages and costs incurred, by judgment, settlement or otherwise,
including attorney's fees and costs, being collectible from Franchisee, by
way of set-off or recoupment from any sums due to Franchisee.
Section 11. TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION.
The City may terminate this Agreement, without cause, by giving the Franchisee
thirty (30) days written notice of such termination and the effective date thereof. The City may
terminate this Agreement, with cause, by giving the Franchisee (10) days written notice of such
termination and the effective date thereof. Cancellation for cause shall be at the discretion of
the City and shall be, but is not limited to, failure to supply the materials, equipment or service
specified within the time allowed or within the terms, conditions or provisions of this agreement.
Upon notice of cancellation or suspension, the contract holder shall be given five (5) days’
notice to appear before the Chief of Police or designee to show why the contract should not be
revoked, in accordance with Vernon Municipal Code Chapter 10.32.130. The Franchisee may
not cancel this Agreement without prior written consent from the Vernon Chief of Police.
Section 12. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION.
In addition to termination or suspension as set forth in Section 11, above, the Chief of
Police may temporarily suspend any Franchisee without a hearing, whenever the continued
operation by the Franchisee would constitute a danger to public health, safety, welfare or public
morals, including, without limitation, where there is a failure to maintain the minimum levels and
standards of liability insurance or claims reserve or failure to keep in full force and effect any
applicable licenses or permits required by federal, state, local law, or regulation. The notice of
temporary suspension may be personally delivered to the party named and to the address given
on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice address
stated herein, if different, or, mailed by registered or certified mail to the party named at the
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address given on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice
address stated herein, if different. Notwithstanding other notice provisions of this Agreement,
the temporary suspension is effective upon the earlier of either receipt or the expiration of 3
days from the date of mailing. The notice of temporary suspension shall include a notice of the
date and time for termination hearing and all other information required by the Vernon Municipal
Code. The temporary suspension shall remain effective until the decision on suspension or
termination is made unless the suspension is lifted by written notice of the Chief of Police.
Section 13. ACCEPTANCE, WAIVER.
Franchisee agrees to be bound by and comply with all the requirements of Chapter
10.32 and this Agreement. By entering into this Agreement, Franchisee waives, to the
maximum extent permitted by law, Franchisee’s right to challenge the terms of this Agreement
and of Chapter 10.32 under federal, state or local law, or under administrative regulation, as
such laws and regulations exist as of the date of signing of this Agreement.
Section 14. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
14.1 INDEPENDENT STATUS. It is understood that in the performance under
this Agreement, Franchisee shall be, and is, an independent operator, and is not an agent,
contractor, or employee of City and shall furnish services in its own manner and method.
Further, Franchisee has and shall retain the right to exercise full control over the employment,
direction, compensation and discharge of all persons employed by Franchisee in its business
operations. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for, and shall indemnify, defend and save
City harmless from all matters relating to the payment of its employees, including compliance
with social security, withholding and all other wages, salaries, benefits, taxes, exactions, and
regulations of any nature whatsoever.
14.2 FRANCHISE NOT AGENT. Franchisee and its subcontractors shall have
no authority, express or implied, to act on behalf of or bind the City in any capacity whatsoever
as agents or otherwise.
14.3 WAIVER. The City’s waiver of any term, condition, breach or default of
this Agreement shall not be considered to be a waiver of any other term, condition, default or
breach, nor of a subsequent breach of the one waived.
14.4 NO ASSIGNMENT. The Franchisee shall not assign or transfer any
interest in this Agreement without the express prior written consent and approval of City
Council.
14.5 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Franchisee shall comply with all Federal,
State, County and City laws, ordinances, resolutions, rules and regulations, which are, as
amended from time to time, incorporated herein and applicable to the performance hereof.
14.6 ATTORNEY’S FEES. If any action at law or in equity is brought to
enforce or interpret the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
reasonable attorney’s fees, costs and necessary disbursements in addition to any other relief to
which such party may be entitled.
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14.7 INTERPRETATION.
14.7.1 Applicable Law. This Agreement, and the rights and duties of the
parties hereunder (both procedural and substantive), shall be governed and construed
according to the laws of the State of California.
14.7.2 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including any Exhibits
attached hereto and any documents explicitly referenced herein, constitutes the entire
agreement and understanding between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes
all prior or contemporaneous negotiations, representations, understandings, correspondence,
documentation and agreements (written or oral).
14.7.3 Written Amendment. This Agreement may only be changed by
written amendment signed by Franchisee and the City Administrator or other authorized
representative of the City, subject to any requisite authorization by the City Council. Any oral
representations or modifications concerning this Agreement shall be of no force or effect.
14.7.4 Severability. If any provision in this Agreement is held by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, void, or unenforceable, such portion shall be
deemed severed from this Agreement, and the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue
in full force and effect as fully as though such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable portion had never
been part of this Agreement.
14.7.5 Choice of Forum. The parties hereby agree that this Agreement is
to be enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California, is entered into and is to be
performed in the City of Vernon and that all claims or controversies arising out of or related to
performance under this Agreement shall be submitted to and resolved in a forum within the
County of Los Angeles at a place to be determined by the rules of the forum.
14.7.6 Order of Precedence. In case of conflict between the terms of this
Agreement and the terms contained in any document attached as an Exhibit or otherwise
incorporated by reference, the order of precedence is as follows: Charter the City of Vernon, the
Vernon Municipal Code, the ordinance granting this Franchise, resolutions of the City of Vernon,
this Agreement, the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services, and
Franchisee’s Response to the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services.
14.8 AUTHORITY OF FRANCHISEE. The Franchisee hereby represents and
warrants to the City that the Franchisee has the right, power, legal capacity and authority to
enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement, and its execution of this Agreement
has been duly authorized.
Section 15. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES.
15.1 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PRACTICES.
Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this
Agreement, Franchisee and any other parties with whom it may subcontract shall adhere to
equal opportunity employment practices to assure that applicants and employees are treated
equally and are not discriminated against because of their race, religion, color, national origin,
ancestry, disability, sex, age, medical condition, marital status. Franchisee further certifies that
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it will not maintain any segregated facilities. Franchisee further agrees to comply with The
Equal Employment Opportunity Practices provisions as set forth in Exhibit B.
15.2 BUSINESS LICENSES. Franchisee shall obtain, and pay any and all
costs associated therewith, any Vernon Business License, which may be required by the
Vernon Municipal Code and all permits, and licenses applicable to Franchisee’s operations
under this Franchise, which are required of Franchisee by any governmental agency.
15.3 MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION OF RECORDS.
The City, or its authorized auditors or representatives, shall have access to and
the right to audit and reproduce any of the Franchisee’s records to the extent the City deems
necessary to insure it is receiving all money to which it is entitled under the Agreement and/or is
paying only the amounts to which Franchisee is properly entitled under the Agreement or for
other purposes relating to the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain and preserve all such records for a period of at
least three (3) years after termination of the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain all such records in the City of Vernon. If not, the
Franchisee shall, upon request, promptly deliver the records to the City of Vernon or reimburse
the City for all reasonable and extra costs incurred in conducting the audit at a location other
than the City of Vernon, including, but not limited to, such additional (out of the City) expenses
for personal, salaries, private auditors, travel, lodging, meals and overhead.
15.4 CONFLICT. Franchisee hereby represents warrants and certifies that no
member, officer or employee of the Franchisee is a director, officer or employee of the City of
Vernon, or a member of any of its boards, commissions or committees, except to the extent
permitted by law.
Section 16. PREVAILING WAGES
The provisions of California Labor Code 1770, et seq., regarding the payment of
prevailing wages on public works, and related regulations, apply to all City contracts. In addition,
the selected tow service companies and/or any subcontractor must be currently registered and
qualified (including payment of any required fee) with the State Department of Industrial
Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 (with limited exceptions for bid purposes only
under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)). This project is subject to compliance monitoring and
enforcement by the State Department of Industrial Relations.
Section 17. NOTICES.
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all notices required by this Agreement
or by Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code shall be given by personal service or by
deposit in the United States mail, postage pre-paid and return receipt requested, addressed to
the parties as follows:
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To City: Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Copies to: Director of Finance
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Franchisee: Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc.
Attention: Jerry Brown, General Manager
4421 Mason Street
South Gate, CA 90280
Notice shall be deemed effective on the date personally served or, if mailed, three days the date
deposited in the mail.
[Signatures Begin on Next Page].
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date set forth below.
City of Vernon, a California charter City
and California municipal corporation
DATED: _____________________
By: ____________________________
Carlos Fandino, City Administrator
Mr. C’s Towing of South Gate, Inc., a
California corporation
DATED: ______________________
By:
Name: Kurtis McElroy
Title: President
ATTEST:
Lisa Pope, City Clerk
By:
Name: Jerry Brown
Title: General Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Zaynah N. Moussa,
Interim City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
FRANCHISEE'S PROPOSAL
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EXHIBIT B
THE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PRACTICES PROVISIONS
A. Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this Agreement, the
Franchisee and each subcontractor shall adhere to equal opportunity employment practices
to assure that applicants and employees are treated equally and are not discriminated
against because of their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap,
sex, or age. Franchisee further certifies that it will not maintain any segregated facilities.
B. Franchisee agrees that it shall, in all solicitations or advertisements for applicants for
employment placed by or on behalf of Franchisee, state that it is an "Equal Opportunity
Employer" or that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap, sex or age.
C. Franchisee agrees that it shall, if requested to do so by the City, certify that it has not, in the
performance of this Agreement, discriminated against applicants or employees because of
their membership in a protected class.
D. Franchisee agrees to provide the City with access to, and, if requested to do so by City,
through its awarding authority, provide copies of all of its records pertaining or relating to its
employment practices, except to the extent such records or portions of such records are
confidential or privileged under state or federal law.
E. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed in any manner as to require or
permit any act which is prohibited by law.
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ORDINANCE NO. 1285
AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF VERNON GRANTING A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TOWING
SERVICES AGREEMENT TO TOWWERKS, LLC. (DBA VIERTEL’S
CENTRAL / NORTHEAST DIVISION)
SECTION 1. Recitals.
A. The City of Vernon (City) is a municipal corporation and a chartered city of the
State of California organized and existing under its Charter and the Constitution
of the State of California.
B. The City Council of the City of Vernon is authorized by City Charter Chapter 8.9
to grant a franchise in the City of Vernon to any person, firm, corporation, or
other entity and to set terms, conditions, restrictions and limitations by
ordinance.
C. On October 2, 2012, the City Council of the City of Vernon adopted Ordinance
No. 1198 adding Chapter 10.32 (formerly Chapter 4B) to the Vernon Municipal
Code to establish a non-consensual franchise towing fee.
D. On or about April 14, 2022, the Vernon Police Department issued a Request
for Proposals for the City’s Franchise Tow Fee Program.
E. After reviewing the proposals, and after a duly noticed public hearing, it was
determined that the proposal submitted by Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s
Central / Northeast Division) (Towwerks) complies with Chapter 10.32 of the
Vernon Municipal Code, and that Towwerks has agreed to comply with all
provisions of this Chapter.
F. The City Council of the City of Vernon desires to grant a non-exclusive police
towing franchise to Towwerks, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in
the Franchise Towing Services Agreement (Franchise Agreement). The
franchise shall be for a term of three (3) years, if a written Franchise Agreement
has been fully executed by the franchisee and all other requirements of the
Franchise Agreement and Chapter 10.32 have been met by the franchisee.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Vernon herby finds and determines
that the above recitals are true and correct and are a substantial part of this ordinance.
SECTION 3. The City Council of the City of Vernon, pursuant to Chapter 10.32
of the Vernon Municipal Code, hereby approves the Franchise Agreement with
Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s Central / Northeast Division), in substantially the same
form attached hereto as Exhibit A. The grant of franchise is based on the certifications
that franchisee shall comply with all provisions of Chapter 10.32 and the Franchise
Agreement.
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SECTION 4. The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby authorizes the City
Administrator to execute said Agreement for, and on behalf of, the City of Vernon and
the City Clerk is hereby authorized to attest thereto.
SECTION 5. The City Council hereby instructs the City Administrator, or his
designee, to take whatever actions are deemed necessary or desirable for the purpose
of implementing and carrying out the purposes of this Ordinance and the transactions
herein approved or authorized, including but not limited to, any non-substantive
changes to the Agreement attached herein.
SECTION 6. Any ordinance or parts of an ordinance in conflict with this
Ordinance are hereby repealed.
SECTION 7. Any provision of the Vernon Municipal Code or appendices
thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such
inconsistencies and no further, is repealed or modified to that extent necessary to
affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 8. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase,
or portion thereof, of this Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to
be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of
the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it
would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, paragraph,
sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions
thereof, be declared invalid or unconstitutional. To this end, the provisions of this
Ordinance are declared to be severable.
SECTION 9. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption and publish this ordinance
as required by law.
SECTION 10. This ordinance shall become effective after the thirtieth day
following its adoption.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of August, 2022.
______________________
LETICIA LOPEZ, Mayor
ATTEST:
LISA POPE, City Clerk
(seal)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________
ZAYNAH N. MOUSSA,
City Attorney
FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
VERNON AND TOWWERKS, LLC. (DBA VIERTEL’S CENTRAL / NORTHEAST DIVISION)
COVER PAGE
Franchisee: Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s
Central / Northeast Division)
Responsible Principal of Franchisee: Randy Steinberg, Owner
Notice Information - Franchisee: Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s
Central / Northeast Division)
2010 N. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Attention: Randy Steinberg, Owner
Phone: (213) 687-1003
Facsimile: (323) 544-4866
Notice Information - City: City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Attention: Robert Sousa, Chief of Police
Telephone: (323) 583-8811 ext. 114
Facsimile: (323) 826-1483
Commencement Date: Upon the effective date of the City of
Vernon ordinance granting franchise to
Viertel’s Central / Northeast Division
Termination Date: Three (3) years after commencement date,
inclusive.
Consideration: Payment is made by Franchisee to City
pursuant to Section 3 of this Agreement.
Payment is made to Franchisee by City
pursuant to Section 5 of this Agreement.
Records Retention Period Three (3) years, pursuant to Sections 7 and
15.3 herein
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FRANCHISEE TOWING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON
AND TOWWERKS, LLC. (DBA VIERTEL’S CENTRAL / NORTHEAST DIVISION)
This Agreement is made and entered into by and between the City of Vernon (City), a
California charter City and California municipal corporation, and Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s
Central / Northeast Division (Franchisee), a Limited Liability Company with its principal place of
business at 2010 N. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90065 (Parties) to provide towing
services to the City.
The Parties agree as follows:
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Franchisee shall provide police towing services to the City of Vernon as set
forth in the City’s Request for Proposal issued on or about April 14, 2022, and titled Request for
Proposals Franchise Tow Fee Program, and Franchisee’s proposal to the City (Proposal) dated
April 28, 2022, Exhibit A, a copy which is attached to and incorporated into this Agreement, by
reference.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code, Franchisee has
applied for a Police Towing Franchise (Franchise); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has held a public hearing for the purpose of hearing
persons in favor of or in opposition to the granting of such Franchise; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that Franchisee has demonstrated
compliance with Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code and has agreed to comply with all
provisions of that Chapter; and
WHEREAS, it is required that City and Franchisee enter into a Franchise Towing
Services Agreement (Agreement) for Police Towing services in the City of Vernon; and
WHEREAS, additional conditions have been imposed upon this grant of Franchise.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties do hereby agree as follows:
Section 1. GRANT OF FRANCHISE.
City grants to Franchisee a Police Towing Franchise authorizing Franchisee to engage
in the business of Police Towing as set forth in Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code in
the City of Vernon and to use the public streets and rights of way for such purpose. This grant
is pursuant to the City’s Request for Proposal and to Franchisee’s proposal for the Franchise.
Franchisee is subject to Chapter 8.9 of the Charter of the City of Vernon, the terms and
conditions specified in Chapter 10.32 et seq., of the Vernon Municipal Code, the terms and
conditions specified in all related resolutions, the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and
the representations and assurances in Franchisee’s application for the Franchise.
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Section 2. TERM OF FRANCHISE.
The term of this Franchise granted to Franchisee shall be for three (3) years, commencing upon
the effective date of the City of Vernon ordinance granting the Franchise (the Effective Date) to
the date that is three (3) years from the Effective Date, inclusive.
Section 3. FRANCHISE FEES.
3.1 During the term of the Franchise, Franchisee shall pay a franchise fee to
City in an amount equal to 5% of Franchisee’s gross annual receipts arising from the use,
operation or possession of the Franchise, which fees shall be assessed from the date on which
the ordinance granting this Franchise became effective and in accordance with Section
10.32.080 of the Vernon Municipal Code and any Resolution adopted by the City Council and in
such other amounts as are set forth in any subsequent resolutions that may be adopted by the
City Council at any time during the term of the Agreement.
3.2 The Franchisee shall file with the City Clerk of the City, within three (3)
months after the expiration of the calendar year, or fractional calendar year, following the date of
the granting of this franchise, and within three (3) months after the expiration of each calendar
year thereafter, a verified statement showing in detail the total gross receipts for the Franchisee
derived during the preceding calendar year, or such fractional calendar year, from the provision
of official police towing services within the limits of the City. The Franchisee shall pay to the
City within fifteen (15) days after the time for filing said statement, in lawful money of the United
States, the aforesaid percentage of its gross receipt for the calendar year, or fractional calendar
year, covered by said statement. Any neglect, omission or refusal by Franchisee to file said
verified statement, or to pay said percentage at the times or in the manner hereinbefore
provided, shall constitute grounds for the declaration of forfeiture of this Franchise and of all
rights of Franchisee hereunder pursuant to the procedures set forth in Sections 11 and 12
herein. However, Franchisee has the ability to cure. Further, the City is responsible for insuring
that Franchisee has the appropriate financial institution information for electronic transfer of the
franchise fee in a timely manner. Any delays caused by incorrect financial institution information
shall not constitute grounds for the declaration of a forfeiture of this Franchise.
3.3 Franchisee shall timely pay all required franchise fees to:
City of Vernon
Attention: Finance Director
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Each payment shall be accompanied by a written statement, verified by the Franchisee or a duly
authorized representative of the Franchise, showing in such form and detail as the Finance
Director of the City of Vernon may prescribe, the calculation of the franchise fee payable by the
Franchisee and such other information as the Finance Director may require as material to a
determination of the amount due.
3.4 The first payment of the franchise fee will be due on October 15, 2022,
and payments shall be due monthly thereafter on the 15th day of each month.
3.5 When Franchisee remits franchise fees to the City, such franchise fees
shall be deemed timely paid only if delivered or postmarked on or before the due date. If fees
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are not timely paid, Franchisee shall be subject to suspension or termination of the Franchise
pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement and/or to any other penalties which may be
established and assessed by the City, including, but without limitation, late fees assessed at the
rate of five percent (5%).
Section 4. TOWING SERVICES.
4.1 Franchisee shall provide Police Towing services, as set forth in the City’s
Request for Proposals, and which includes, but without limitation, strictly adhering to the
eligibility requirements, operating regulations, fees schedules, standards for tow truck
equipment, standard rules of operation, response time, inspection, information regarding new or
terminated tow truck drivers, tow driver training, and as set forth in Exhibit A which is
Franchisee’s response to the City’s Request for Proposals. All services by Franchisee shall
comply will all provisions of federal, state and local law and regulation, including, but without
limitation Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code.
4.2 Franchisee understands and agrees that, although the City is granting it a
franchise as a police towing service, the City may requisition towing services from other service
providers as set forth in Section 10.32.120 of the Vernon Municipal Code, or if Franchisee is
otherwise unavailable for any reason, in the reasonable discretion of the Vernon Chief of Police
and including, but without limitation, suspension or termination of the Franchisee.
Section 5. RATES, CHARGES AND PAYMENT.
5.1 The rates and charges for towing and storage in connection with this
Franchise shall be established by the City Council. The prevailing rates prescribed by the
Southern Division of the California Highway Patrol, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the
Los Angeles County Sheriff will be considered when establishing these rates. The rate per
impound shall be $175.00 and the storage charge shall be $52.00 per day, until otherwise
modified by the City Council. A sign showing the approved rates and charges shall be
conspicuously posted in the Franchisee’s tow office and shall be posted in a conspicuous place
in the interior of each tow truck operated by Franchisee. Franchisee shall provide vehicle
owners the option of payment by MasterCard and Visa. Franchisee must provide for after-hours
releases of vehicles, and may collect an after-hour release fee. Any after-hours release fee
shall not exceed one half (½) of the impound fee .
Section 6. REPORTS.
Franchisee shall file a monthly towing report with the Chief of Police along with payment
of its monthly franchise fees. The report shall be submitted to:
Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
The report shall include the information required by Section 10.32.100(H) of the Vernon
Municipal Code for Franchisee and its subcontractors, certified as true and correct under
penalty of perjury by a responsible owner or official of the Franchisee.
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Section 7. FRANCHISEE’S RECORDS.
7.1 The Franchisee shall maintain accurate and complete books and
accounts of all revenues and income arising out of its operations under the Franchise and in a
manner, which conforms with generally accepted accounting principles. Franchisee’s books,
accounts and records, arising out of or related to its operation under the Franchise, shall at all
times be open to inspection, examination and audit by authorized officers, employees and
agents of the City. Such records shall be kept at franchisee’s place of business shown in this
Agreement for receipt of notices.
7.2 Franchisee shall require its subcontractors, if any, who perform Police
Towing services in connection with the Franchise to keep and maintain books of account and
other records showing all business transactions conducted by such subcontractors in
connection with the Franchise. Franchisee agrees to use its best efforts to avoid duplication of
reporting between Franchisee and its subcontractors.
Section 8. TOW VEHICLE AND DRIVER, REPORTING, COMPLIANCE, AND
IDENTIFICATION.
8.1 Franchisee shall maintain on file with the City, a complete and accurate
listing of every vehicle operated by Franchisee for police towing services. Franchisee shall
certify, in a form acceptable to City, that every such vehicle conforms with regional and State
vehicle emission standards (“emission standards”), and shall provide documentation of
compliance on written request of the City. Franchisee understands and agrees that failure to
conform with emission standards may result in suspension, termination or non-renewal of a
Franchise.
8.2 Every vehicle operated by Franchisee and for Police Towing services in
the City shall bear the following identification: Franchisee’s trade name, monogram or insignia,
the Franchise vehicle number, together with Franchisee’s telephone number painted upon both
sides of the vehicle. All lettering mentioned in this paragraph shall be not less than 2-1/4” in
height and not less than 5/6” stroke. The Franchisee agrees to remove the Franchise vehicle
number and all other information within 30 calendar days after the Franchise is terminated or
the vehicle is sold, transferred or taken out of service.
8.3 Franchisee shall file with the Vernon Police Department, the name,
address, date of birth, driver’s license number, and all identification required of any tow unit
driver working for Franchisee, whether as an employee or as a contractor, which information
shall be filed not later than ten (10) business days following the effective date of employment or
engagement. Franchisee shall also notify the Vernon Police Department within ten (10)
business days of the following occurrences: the license suspension of any tow unit driver, and
the end of employment, or engagement, of any tow unit driver with Franchisee.
Section 9. INDEMNIFICATION OF CITY.
9.1 Franchisee shall indemnify and hold the City harmless from and against
any and all loss, damages, liability, claims, suits, costs and expenses, fines, charges or
penalties whatsoever, including reasonable attorney’s fees, regardless of the merit or outcome
of any such claim or suit, arising from or in any manner related to the services provided or
business conducted under Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code or otherwise pursuant
to this Agreement.
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9.2 Franchisee shall indemnify the City, defend with counsel approved by the
City, protect and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees, agents, assigns, and any
successor or successors to the City’s interest from and against all claims, actual damages
(including but not limited to special and consequential damages), natural resources damage,
punitive damages, injuries, costs, response, remediation and removal costs, losses, demands,
debts, liens, liabilities, causes of action, suits, legal or administrative proceedings, interest, fines
and charges, penalties and expenses (including, but not limited to, attorneys’ and expert witness
fees and costs incurred in connection with defending against any of the foregoing or in enforcing
this indemnity) of any kind whatsoever paid, incurred or suffered by, or asserted against, the
City or its officers, employees, agents or the Franchisee arising from or attributable to any
repair, remediation, cleanup or detoxification, or preparation and implementation of any
removal, remedial, response, or closure or other plan (regardless of whether undertaken due to
governmental action) concerning any hazardous substance or hazardous waste at any place
where the Franchisee stores or dispose of solid or hazardous waste. The foregoing indemnity is
intended to operate as an Agreement pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act, 42 United States Code Section 9607, and California Health and
Safety Code Section 25364, and any successor provisions, to insure, protect, hold harmless,
and indemnify the City from liability.
Section 10. INSURANCE.
Franchisee shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain policies of insurance of the types
and in the amounts set forth below, for the duration of the Agreement, including any extensions
thereto. The policies shall state that they afford primary coverage.
i.Automobile Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 combined
single limit, including owned, hired, and non-owned liability coverage.
(1) MCS 90 Endorsement must be attached to the auto liability policy.
ii.Garage Keeper Legal Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less
than $1,000,000 for damage to a vehicle towed, impounded or otherwise
stored by Franchisee.
iii.On-Hook Liability insurance with coverage limits of no less than
$1,000,000 for damage to any vehicle towed by Franchisee or otherwise
connected to any of Franchisee’s tow trucks.
iv.Franchisee agrees to subrogate automobile liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to defend, indemnify and
hold harmless, the City, and its respective employees, agents, and City
Council from and against all claims, liabilities, suits, losses, damages,
injuries and expenses, including all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees
(“Claims”), which are attributable to any act or omission by the City under
the performance of the services.
v.General Liability with minimum limits of at least $2,000,000 per
occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate written on an Insurance Services
Office (ISO) Comprehensive General Liability "occurrence" form or its
equivalent for coverage on an occurrence basis. Premises/Operations
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and Personal Injury coverage is required. The City of Vernon, its
directors, commissioners, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers
must be endorsed on the policy as additional insureds as respects liability
arising out of the Franchisee's performance of this Agreement.
(1)If Franchisee employs other contractors as part of the services
rendered, Contractor's Protective Coverage is
required. Franchisee may include all subcontractors as insureds
under its own policy or shall furnish separate insurance for each
subcontractor, meeting the requirements set forth herein.
(2)Franchisee agrees to subrogate General Liability resulting from
performance under this agreement by agreeing to def end,
indemnify and hold harmless, the City, and its respective
employees, agents, and City Council from and against all claims,
liabilities, suits, losses, damages, injuries and expenses, including
all costs and reasonable attorney’s fees (“Claims”), which are
attributable to any act or omission by the City under the
performance of the services.
vi.Franchisee shall comply with the applicable sections of the California
Labor Code concerning workers' compensation for injuries on the job. In
addition, Franchisee shall require each subcontractor to similarly maintain
workers’ compensation insurance in accordance with the laws for
California for all of the subcontractor’s employees. Compliance is
accomplished in one of the following manners:
(1)Provide copy of permissive self-insurance certificate approved by
the State of California; or
(2)Secure and maintain in force a policy of workers' compensation
insurance with statutory limits and Employer's Liability Insurance with a
minimal limit of $1,000,000 per accident. The policy shall be endorsed to
waive all rights of subrogation against City, its directors, commissioners,
officers, employees, and volunteers for losses arising from performance
of this Agreement; or
(3)Provide a "waiver" form certifying that no employees subject to the
Labor Code's Workers' Compensation provision will be used in
performance of this Agreement.
vii.Each insurance policy included in this clause shall be endorsed to state
that coverage shall not be cancelled except after thirty (30) days' prior
written notice to City.
viii.Insurance shall be placed with insurers with a Best's rating of no less than
A-VIII.
ix.Prior to commencement of performance, Franchisee shall furnish City
with a certificate of insurance for each policy. Each certificate is to be
signed by a person authorized by that insurer to bind coverage on its
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behalf. The certificate(s) must be in a form approved by City. City may
require complete, certified copies of any or all policies at any time.
x.Failure to maintain required insurance at all times shall constitute a
default and material breach. In such event, Franchisee shall immediately
notify City and cease all performance under this Agreement until further
directed by the City. In the absence of satisfactory insurance coverage,
City may, at its option: (a) procure insurance with collection rights for
premiums, attorney's fees and costs against Franchisee by way of set-off
or recoupment from sums due to Franchisee, at City's option; (b)
immediately terminate this Agreement and seek damages from the
Agreement resulting from said breach; or (c) self-insure the risk, with all
damages and costs incurred, by judgment, settlement or otherwise,
including attorney's fees and costs, being collectible from Franchisee, by
way of set-off or recoupment from any sums due to Franchisee.
Section 11. TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION.
The City may terminate this Agreement, without cause, by giving the Franchisee
thirty (30) days written notice of such termination and the effective date thereof. The City may
terminate this Agreement, with cause, by giving the Franchisee (10) days written notice of such
termination and the effective date thereof. Cancellation for cause shall be at the discretion of
the City and shall be, but is not limited to, failure to supply the materials, equipment or service
specified within the time allowed or within the terms, conditions or provisions of this agreement.
Upon notice of cancellation or suspension, the contract holder shall be given five (5) days’
notice to appear before the Chief of Police or designee to show why the contract should not be
revoked, in accordance with Vernon Municipal Code Chapter 10.32.130. The Franchisee may
not cancel this Agreement without prior written consent from the Vernon Chief of Police.
Section 12. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION.
In addition to termination or suspension as set forth in Section 11, above, the Chief of
Police may temporarily suspend any Franchisee without a hearing, whenever the continued
operation by the Franchisee would constitute a danger to public health, safety, welfare or public
morals, including, without limitation, where there is a failure to maintain the minimum levels and
standards of liability insurance or claims reserve or failure to keep in full force and effect any
applicable licenses or permits required by federal, state, local law, or regulation. T he notice of
temporary suspension may be personally delivered to the party named and to the address given
on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice address
stated herein, if different, or, mailed by registered or certified mail to the party named at the
address given on the application pursuant to which such Franchise was issued and to the notice
address stated herein, if different. Notwithstanding other notice provisions of this Agreement,
the temporary suspension is effective upon the earlier of either receipt or the expiration of 3
days from the date of mailing. The notice of temporary suspension shall include a notice of the
date and time for termination hearing and all other information required by the Vernon Municipal
Code. The temporary suspension shall remain effective until the decision on suspension or
termination is made unless the suspension is lifted by written notice of the Chief of Police.
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Section 13. ACCEPTANCE, WAIVER.
Franchisee agrees to be bound by and comply with all the requirements of Chapter
10.32 and this Agreement. By entering into this Agreement, Franchisee waives, to the
maximum extent permitted by law, Franchisee’s right to challenge the terms of this Agreement
and of Chapter 10.32 under federal, state or local law, or under administrative regulation, as
such laws and regulations exist as of the date of signing of this Agreement.
Section 14. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
14.1 INDEPENDENT STATUS. It is understood that in the performance under
this Agreement, Franchisee shall be, and is, an independent operator, and is not an agent,
contractor, or employee of City and shall furnish services in its own manner and method.
Further, Franchisee has and shall retain the right to exercise full control over the employment,
direction, compensation and discharge of all persons employed by Franchisee in its business
operations. Franchisee shall be solely responsible for, and shall indemnify, defend and save
City harmless from all matters relating to the payment of its employees, including compliance
with social security, withholding and all other wages, salaries, benefits, taxes, exactions, and
regulations of any nature whatsoever.
14.2 FRANCHISE NOT AGENT. Franchisee and its subcontractors shall have
no authority, express or implied, to act on behalf of or bind the City in any capacity whatsoever
as agents or otherwise.
14.3 WAIVER. The City’s waiver of any term, condition, breach or default of
this Agreement shall not be considered to be a waiver of any other term, condition, default or
breach, nor of a subsequent breach of the one waived.
14.4 NO ASSIGNMENT. The Franchisee shall not assign or transfer any
interest in this Agreement without the express prior written consent and approval of City
Council.
14.5 COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Franchisee shall comply with all Federal,
State, County and City laws, ordinances, resolutions, rules and regulations, which are, as
amended from time to time, incorporated herein and applicable to the performance hereof.
14.6 ATTORNEY’S FEES. If any action at law or in equity is brought to
enforce or interpret the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to
reasonable attorney’s fees, costs and necessary disbursements in addition to any other relief to
which such party may be entitled.
14.7 INTERPRETATION.
14.7.1 Applicable Law. This Agreement, and the rights and duties of the
parties hereunder (both procedural and substantive), shall be governed and construed
according to the laws of the State of California.
14.7.2 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including any Exhibits
attached hereto and any documents explicitly referenced herein, constitutes the entire
agreement and understanding between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes
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all prior or contemporaneous negotiations, representations, understandings, correspondence,
documentation and agreements (written or oral).
14.7.3 Written Amendment. This Agreement may only be changed by
written amendment signed by Franchisee and the City Administrator or other authorized
representative of the City, subject to any requisite authorization by the City Council. Any oral
representations or modifications concerning this Agreement shall be of no force or effect.
14.7.4 Severability. If any provision in this Agreement is held by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, void, or unenforceable, such portion shall be
deemed severed from this Agreement, and the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue
in full force and effect as fully as though such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable portion had never
been part of this Agreement.
14.7.5 Choice of Forum. The parties hereby agree that this Agreement is
to be enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California, is entered into and is to be
performed in the City of Vernon and that all claims or controversies arising out of or related to
performance under this Agreement shall be submitted to and resolved in a forum within the
County of Los Angeles at a place to be determined by the rules of the forum.
14.7.6 Order of Precedence. In case of conflict between the terms of this
Agreement and the terms contained in any document attached as an Exhibit or otherwise
incorporated by reference, the order of precedence is as follows: Charter the City of Vernon, the
Vernon Municipal Code, the ordinance granting this Franchise, resolutions of the City of Vernon,
this Agreement, the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services, and
Franchisee’s Response to the City’s Request for Proposals for Official Police Towing Services.
14.8 AUTHORITY OF FRANCHISEE. The Franchisee hereby represents and
warrants to the City that the Franchisee has the right, power, legal capacity and authority to
enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement, and its execution of this Agreement
has been duly authorized.
Section 15. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES.
15.1 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PRACTICES.
Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this
Agreement, Franchisee and any other parties with whom it may subcontract shall adhere to
equal opportunity employment practices to assure that applicants and employees are treated
equally and are not discriminated against because of their race, religion, color, national origin,
ancestry, disability, sex, age, medical condition, marital status. Franchisee further certifies that
it will not maintain any segregated facilities. Franchisee further agrees to comply with The
Equal Employment Opportunity Practices provisions as set forth in Exhibit B.
15.2 BUSINESS LICENSES. Franchisee shall obtain, and pay any and all
costs associated therewith, any Vernon Business License, which may be required by the
Vernon Municipal Code and all permits, and licenses applicable to Franchisee’s operations
under this Franchise, which are required of Franchisee by any governmental agency.
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15.3 MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION OF RECORDS.
The City, or its authorized auditors or representatives, shall have access to and
the right to audit and reproduce any of the Franchisee’s records to the extent the City deems
necessary to insure it is receiving all money to which it is entitled under the Agreement and/or is
paying only the amounts to which Franchisee is properly entitled under the Agreement or for
other purposes relating to the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain and preserve all such records for a period of at
least three (3) years after termination of the Agreement.
The Franchisee shall maintain all such records in the City of Vernon. If not, the
Franchisee shall, upon request, promptly deliver the records to the City of Vernon or reimburse
the City for all reasonable and extra costs incurred in conducting the audit at a location other
than the City of Vernon, including, but not limited to, such additional (out of the City) expenses
for personal, salaries, private auditors, travel, lodging, meals and overhead.
15.4 CONFLICT. Franchisee hereby represents warrants and certifies that no
member, officer or employee of the Franchisee is a director, officer or employee of the City of
Vernon, or a member of any of its boards, commissions or committees, except to the extent
permitted by law.
Section 16. PREVAILING WAGES
The provisions of California Labor Code 1770, et seq., regarding the payment of
prevailing wages on public works, and related regulations, apply to all City contracts. In addition,
the selected tow service companies and/or any subcontractor must be currently registered and
qualified (including payment of any required fee) with the State Department of Industrial
Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 (with limited exceptions for bid purposes only
under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)). This project is subject to compliance monitoring and
enforcement by the State Department of Industrial Relations.
Section 17. NOTICES.
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all notices required by this Agreement
or by Chapter 10.32 of the Vernon Municipal Code shall be given by personal service or by
deposit in the United States mail, postage pre-paid and return receipt requested, addressed to
the parties as follows:
To City: Chief of Police
Vernon Police Department
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
Copies to: Director of Finance
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
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Franchisee: Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s Central /Northeast Division)
Attention: Randy Steinberg, Managing Member/Owner
2010 N. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Notice shall be deemed effective on the date personally served or, if mailed, three days the date
deposited in the mail.
[Signatures Begin on Next Page].
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date set forth below.
City of Vernon, a California charter City
and California municipal corporation
DATED: ________ _
By:____________________________
Carlos Fandino, City Administrator
Towwerks, LLC. (dba Viertel’s Central /
Northeast Division), a Limited Liability
Company
DATED: __________
By:
Name: Randy Steinberg
Title: Managing Member - Owner
ATTEST:
Lisa Pope, City Clerk
By:
Name: Cecilio Nunez
Title: General Manger
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Zaynah N. Moussa,
Interim City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
FRANCHISEE'S PROPOSAL
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EXHIBIT B
THE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PRACTICES PROVISIONS
A.Franchisee certifies and represents that, during the performance of this Agreement, the
Franchisee and each subcontractor shall adhere to equal opportunity employment practices
to assure that applicants and employees are treated equally and are not discriminated
against because of their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap,
sex, or age. Franchisee further certifies that it will not maintain any segregated facilities.
B.Franchisee agrees that it shall, in all solicitations or advertisements for applicants for
employment placed by or on behalf of Franchisee, state that it is an "Equal Opportunity
Employer" or that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without
regard to their race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, handicap, sex or age.
C.Franchisee agrees that it shall, if requested to do so by the City, certify that it has not, in the
performance of this Agreement, discriminated against applicants or employees because of
their membership in a protected class.
D.Franchisee agrees to provide the City with access to, and, if requested to do so by City,
through its awarding authority, provide copies of all of its records pertaining or relating to its
employment practices, except to the extent such records or portions of such records are
confidential or privileged under state or federal law.
E.Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed in any manner as to require or
permit any act which is prohibited by law.
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