South Whitehall commissioners have approved Hauser’s Truck Service and Stew’s Tire Center as tow operators for the next two years.

They will provide assistance to the police department when the need arises for towing.

At the Nov. 2 meeting, Police Chief John Christman explained the towing services will be used to handle vehicles involved in accidents or other situations necessitating impoundment.

This could occur when a vehicle is found to have a violation such as lack of registration or insurance, said the chief.

Township Manager Howard Kutzler reported after the tow operator authorization agreement was approved by commissioners in the summer, a request for proposals was issued for towing services.

Five bidders responded.

In addition to Hauser’s and Stew’s, Ironton Auto Body, Supreme Auto Body and Faust’s Hauling submitted proposals.

Solicitor Joseph Zator commented on the selection process.

“There were important criteria, such as size and quality of fleet and the number of employees to provide service,” Zator said.

Christman added a secured area to store the vehicles was also part of the requirement.

Board member David Bond noted commissioners were looking for tow operators who would have the equipment and available employees to provide a quick response when called.

Bond noted there was nothing bad to say about any of the four operators in contention.

Kutzler said Faust was ruled out for not providing enough information.

Bond said the tow operators will be on a daily rotation.

“With the rotation and low volume, the companies might not get anything on their days,” Bond said.

He noted if four operators were included, they would have even more likelihood of days with no calls.

Stan Stanek of Ironton Auto Body expressed disappointment in not being selected as a tow operator.

“We have two employees and other help,” Stanek said. “We’re planning on growing the business.”

Commissioners said he could apply when the present agreements expire.