Gripe Vine Readers:
In last week’s column, there were a number of questions regarding the “Boot” Program that I felt could be answered by our city officials.
Michael Walsh, Public Relations Information Coordinator promptly responded to Gripe Vine’s inquiries:
Is the Boot Program in force presently?
“It is scheduled to restart in September.”
Are there plans to continue its usage?
“Yes”
Questions have been posed relating in the past, to the city’s on and off Boot Program surveillance. Why does this happen?
“The timing is based on the tax cycle and availability of the vendor.”
What methods are employed to collect delinquent accounts from out of town motor vehicle operators?
“They are collected like property tax bills and are currently placed with our collection agency.”
How much does it cost the city to utilize this program and how does it measure against its surveillance income?
“The Boot Program is operated at no cost to the city.”
What is the success rate with the Boot Program at this point?
“A total of 1,189 vehicles have been ‘booted’, generating revenue of $270,244.57, excluding third-party collection fees.”
What is the total amount for delinquent statements related to this program?
“A total of $6,258,415.16 excluding third-party collection fees, has been collected for delinquent statements since November 1, 2014.”
The Boot Program: A vehicle-mounted ID system is part of a boot program that uses an infrared license plate scanner to target tax scofflaws. Vehicles are released from the boot as soon as the owner pays all delinquent taxes, plus a boot fee.
Coming up…commercial trucks parked illegally…barking dogs…motorized skateboarder…in-law apartments…noisy neighbors’ music…more police surveillance needed on the beach walkway…unanswered gripes to Councilman Nick Ruickoldt and much more.
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