Title
Resolution Requesting the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to Reconsider Permitted Uses in Commercial Loading/Taxi Stand Zones
Body
Whereas, In 2013 the City's Taxicab Board was requested to look at utilizing some downtown loading zones at night for taxi staging to alleviate traffic congestion and other problems happening in the evening due to vehicles double parking, parking too close to the corners, and blocking driveways while waiting for patrons;
Whereas, A committee of City and Downtown Development Authority (DDA) staff researched and, in accordance with the City/DDA Parking Agreement requirement that the DDA seek advisory input on parking operations, obtained input from representatives of the four downtown associations, delivery vehicle drivers, parking referees and others;
Whereas, The DDA has the authority to implement changes to the loading zones per the City/DDA Parking Agreement subject to administrative approval and City permitting regulations from the City;
Whereas, The DDA, after all necessary actions required by the City/DDA Parking Agreement, implemented the existing dual-use commercial loading zone/taxicab stand for approximately 20 of the downtown loading zones;
Whereas, Since implementing dual-use zones, various market and regulatory factors have reduced the number of licensed taxicabs in the City to less than 30; and
Whereas, Taxicab stands can legally be utilized by licensed taxicabs and private TNC's are unlicensed services improperly utilizing taxi stands;
RESOLVED, That City Council requests the DDA, after consultation with the Taxicab Board, remove the taxicab stands that are established in conjunction with commercial loading zones;
RESOLVED, That City Council requests the DDA and Taxicab Board (or a designated Taxicab Board citizen representative) re-consider, after taking into account traffic safety and operations and citizen feedback, how to best utilize the approximately 20 commercial loading zon...
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