The Safe Clear Program will cost the city about $300,000 more in Fiscal Year 2006 than previously estimated, according to the results of a limited audit released by City Controller Annise Parker.

“Although lower than our numbers, the administration's cost estimates are reasonable,” said Controller Parker. “Both of us agree that there is a funding gap that will need to be bridged.”

The Controller's Office audit concluded that for the six months ending June 30, 2005, the Safe Clear Program would cost the city approximately $1.1 million. The expenses for FY 06 not covered by Metro or fees paid by tow truck operators are estimated to be $878,000 or $278,000 thousand greater than earlier estimates from the administration and Houston Police Department. The estimate is based on a review of revenues and expenses for the program since its inception in January. The limited audit was conducted to provide City Council with an independent assessment of program costs prior to consideration of the budget for the coming fiscal year. A complete performance review is planned for the future.

“There has been a lot of confusion about this program among city council members and the public,” Parker said. “It was rolled out without being adequately vetted. In addition, HPD was unprepared for the administrative burden. Most of the problems will be addressed through procedural improvements at the police department and program changes negotiated with the towing industry. I remain a strong supporter of Safe Clear and believe it is having a significant impact on improving mobility and highway safety”

Statistics released by Mayor Bill White last week indicate Safe Clear cut freeway accidents by nearly 10 percent during in its first four months compared to the same time period in the two previous years.

###