Chapel Hill officials to discuss towing signage

Chapel Hill has been working to crack down on predatory towing since 2011 when the council passed a towing ordinance with tough regulations for tow companies. The rules, which came in response to concerns, set fees towing companies could charge and required them to accept credit card or debit card payments.

On Monday, councilors are prepared to address signage, a portion of the ordinance they were allowed to keep.

According to downtown business owners, limited parking and towing can drive away business and be stressful for customers.

"I have one or two customers who are frustrated they do not have money and it just messes up their whole day," said business owner Ashish Pate.

Councilman Lee Starrow said he was disappointed by the court's decision, but he is glad the signage requirements remain.

"We are going to debate some mechanics about how frequently we need to have signs and how many spots," he said.

Starrow hopes the additional signs will inform drivers and cut down on towing.

"At a minimum I think that will give the public expectations and understanding," he said.

The town of Chapel Hill said they are continually working to solve the towing problem and are taking steps to partner with local businesses and increase town owned lots.