Missing a headlight? Bradenton police launch new program to pay for your repair
Getting pulled over in the next few weeks could result in a free vehicle repair courtesy of the Bradenton Police Department.
Instead of writing tickets, police are partnering with three local mechanics to repair lights at little to no cost to drivers. The Bradenton City Council approved the program at Wednesday’s meeting.
“Non-functioning vehicle lights create a safety hazard for motorists on the roadway. Operation Brighten Bradenton will assist vehicle owners in getting the repairs they need to create a safer environment on the roadway,” Lt. Jeremy Giddens wrote in a Dec. 5 letter to Bevan requesting $1,200 in federal forfeiture funds to pay for the project.
The police department will use those funds to pay up to $30 of the repair. Participating mechanics will also pitch in the remaining cost, up to $30. The voucher is good for the repair of one headlight, tail light or tag light. The vehicle owner will pay any difference not covered by the voucher.
“It’s a continued effort to not only make our streets safer but to leave folks with a positive impression of us and use our forfeiture funds for good,” Bevan told City Council members.
Bradenton police are providing enough funding to pay for 40 vehicle repairs.
The participating mechanic shops participating in the program are:
- Roy’s Automotive Clinic, 1219 14th St. W., Bradenton
- Jake’s Automotive Center, 708 Ninth St. W., Bradenton
- Brownie’s Automotive Service, 1701 Ninth St. W., Bradenton
This story was originally published December 19, 2019 at 5:00 AM.
