Title
Resolution to De-regulate Taxicab Meter Rates by Establishing a High, Maximum Meter Rate
Memorandum
On August 28, 2014, a regularly scheduled Taxicab Board meeting was held. The Taxicab Board desired Council to consider a resolution to establish a very high, maximum meter rate for taxicabs along with ordinance to "de-regulate" rates. Establishing a very high, maximum rate will allow each company to establish and advertise their own rate, which in essence de-regulates rates. The Taxicab Board considers de-regulation of rates an experiment which has the support of the local taxicab industry. Establishing a very high, maximum rate was preferable in case issues arise during the pilot period.
The Board voted unanimously to recommend to council an increase of $7.00 on the flag drop and an increase of $1.25 per 1/4 mile ($5.00/mile).
The current and proposed rate increase is shown as follows:
Service Current Proposed
Flag Drop $3.00 $10.00
Mileage $2.50 $5.00
($0.50 per 1/5 mile) ($1.25 per 1/4 mile)
Waiting Time $24.00 per hour $24.00 per hour
Extra Passengers $0 $1 per passenger over 3
(in excess of 3) as a surcharge
It is also recommended that this increase go into effect upon meter certification by the Police Department and that all rate cards reflect each vehicle's standard taximeter rates.
Staff
Prepared by: Sarah Singleton, Taxicab Board Secretary on behalf of Taxicab Board
Reviewed by: Tom Crawford, Chief Financial Officer
Approved by: Steven D. Powers, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The Taxicab Board received a request from several taxicab companies to de-regulate taxicab meter rates;
Whereas, On August 28, 2014, the Taxicab Board met at a Taxicab Board meeting to discuss a establishing a very high, maximum taximeter rate;
Whereas; Council adopted an ordinance amendment to de-regulate rates by way of establishing very high, maximum rates at their September 2, 2014 Council meeting;
Whereas, City Council held a public hearing on October 6, 2014; and
Whereas, The current and proposed rate increase is shown as follows:
Service Current Proposed
Flag Drop $3.00 $10.00
Mileage $2.50 $5.00
($0.50 per 1/5 mile) ($1.25 per 1/4 mile)
Waiting Time $24.00 per hour $24.00 per hour
Extra Passengers $0 $1 per passenger over 3
(in excess of 3) as a surcharge
RESOLVED, That City Council approve the recommended increase to the standard taximeter rates as stated above, effective October 6, 2014.