(6) Impoundment; response to notice required. If a hearing has not been requested pursuant to § 156.052(I), § 156.808, and §§ 32.275 et seq. and a motor vehicle and/or trailer impounded by Metro Government has not been claimed, notice shall be mailed by certified mail to the registered owner, if known, and lien holders of record, if any, affording the parties the right within ten days from the date of notice to claim the vehicle or request a hearing pursuant to KRS 82.625. The notice shall state that, if no hearing is requested, the vehicle and/or trailer shall be deemed abandoned unless the charges thereon are paid within 45 days of the certified mailing of the notice.
(7) Impoundment; escheat to Metro Government if no response to notice.
(a) After 45 days from the date of impoundment, if no appeal is filed, or if an appeal is filed, 45 days from the date of a final order of the last presiding administrative body or court with jurisdiction, an impounded motor vehicle and/or trailer shall be deemed abandoned and the vehicle and/or trailer shall escheat to Metro Government.
(b) If the vehicle and/or trailer is judged suitable for use, Metro Government may obtain a certificate of registration and ownership from the Jefferson County Clerk, pursuant to KRS 186.020 and either use the vehicle for governmental purposes or sell the vehicle at public auction to the highest bidder. If the vehicle and/or trailer is not suitable for use it may be sold for its scrap or junk value.