Referral: new state towing and reckless-driving authority
Waukesha
Summary
The city adopted the state law letting police impound cars used in reckless driving, even on a first offense and even if the driver isn't the owner. A failed amendment means someone later found not guilty could still owe impound and storage fees.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Mar 17, 2026.
Impact analysis
Impound fees go to the vehicle owner; the failed waiver amendment would have shifted costs to the city, which has no budget for it.
Residents endangered by reckless driving get a new deterrent and police get an additional enforcement tool.
Owners whose cars are borrowed and later impounded could face weeks of storage fees even if charges are dismissed.
Mentions & discussions (2)
City Council — March 17, 2026
The city adopted the state law letting police impound cars used in reckless driving, even on a first offense and even if the driver isn't the owner. A failed amendment means someone later found not guilty could still owe impound and storage fees.
City Council — February 19, 2026
Alder Van Trieste asked the Ordinance & License Committee to consider adopting new powers the state just granted cities on towing vehicles and reckless-driving offenses.
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