Pottstown's New Plan for Police Fees and Fines Comparable With Those of Neighbors

Pottstown’s Borough Council voted unanimously to draft possible changes to the police department’s fees and fines regarding dumpsters, parking, and more on Monday night, some of which could raise fees and fines up to 300 percent, according to The Mercury.

Police Chief Richard Drumheller’s first proposal regarding the fees and fines, which indicated that the changes would be effective as of October, will be made available to the public.

The fee and fine increases that could go up by 300 percent range from an increase of 20 cents per hour to $35 in certain fines.

Drumheller had previously told the Council that Pottstown’s fees and fines were generally lower than that of its surrounding neighbors.  His proposal would leave some fees and fines higher than some surrounding municipalities, and some fees and fines to be lower.

He has proposed a new charge related to fixing cars on the street; specifically, there us a proposed $50 fine for “greasing/changing fluids or repairing vehicles on the street or sidewalk.”

A fine for parking by an expired parking meter would grow between 33 percent and 100 percent.  The current fine of  $25 that is to be paid up to 72 hours after the parking violation will increase to the $20 under Drumheller’s plan, which is comparable to the fines charged in nearby municipalities.

Councilman Dan Weand said that he and the rest of the Finance Committee of which he is a member agree with the new fees.  “Pottstown is way behind the times with these fees,” he said.

From here, Borough Solicitor Charles Garner, Jr. will amend the applicable ordinances and the Borough Council will have another vote.