Judge Says New Towing Company Can Take Over Towing For City Of Tulsa

A judge ruled on Friday that another company is free to take over towing for the City of Tulsa.

But there still might be a lawsuit over it.

For the last 30 years, the city contracted with Storey Wrecker for towing and storage but just lost the contract. Storey Wrecker has a long history as the city's preferred towing company.

It's a contract that gives them a guaranteed flow of business - not just for City vehicles - but any car towed under city authority.

Next month, Allied Towing will take over on Nov. 1 after winning the contract to start towing and taking possession of vehicles the city has impounded. That's hundreds of cars.

10/9/2015 Related Story: Storey Wrecker Sues City Of Tulsa Over Towing Contract

On Friday morning, Judge Mary Fitzgerald dismissed claims the city gave special treatment to Allied's bid.

"We thought we showed some significant problems with the city's contracting process, but the judge didn't agree with us so we'll have to evaluate what we do going forward,” attorney for Storey Wrecker, Tom Robertson, said.

The towing contract leads to lucrative mileage and storage fees so bidders pay the city for the rights.

Storey Wrecker had a bid of $220,000 per year. Allied bid $525,000 per year.

“The difference over five years to the citizens is $1.5 million, and that is a significant factor,” city attorney Gerry Bender said.

The court case had Storey arguing Allied didn't meet bid specifications meant to ensure it can handle the job.

The city requires space for 1300 cars outdoors, 225 indoors and isolated spots for cars held as evidence.

Storey has that and Allied doesn't, but the contract requires it.

"They've got work to do but they're going to be ready,” Allied Towing attorney David Ross said. “They'll be ready to provide the services as required."

Read the documents pertaining to this case here