Committee approves proposed ordinance lifting cap on taxi permits
Posted: Jun 18, 2014 8:19 PM CDT | Updated: Nov 5, 2014 2:49 PM CDT
MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee Public Works Committee has voted in favor of a proposed ordinance to lift the cap on the amount of taxis can legally operate in the City of Milwaukee.
The proposal comes from Milwaukee Alderman Bob Donovan whose district covers most of the downtown area. In addition to lifting the cap on taxi permits, the proposal has rules to govern companies like Uber and Lyft.
Lyft and Uber are opposed to Alderman Bauman's proposal, because it would require their drivers to pay hundreds of dollars in fees. The drivers would also have to go through city contractors for background checks, license and car inspections.
Company officials want to continue using their process with private vendors to approve drivers. They say that will help the city avoid a flood of new applications.
Alderman Bauman says if companies don't want to go through his basic requirements, then they shouldn't do business in the City of Milwaukee.
Cab company owners are upset over the increased competition. Many drivers support the plan, because it gives them the freedom to start their own service.