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Bob Harrington provided a deputation in opposition to motion 12-G-151 concerning Taxi Tariffs and Taxi Industry Consultation. He commented that since April 30, 2012 the number of taxis in the City have grown and feels that the proposed rate reduction and seniors discount will not necessarily increase taxi ridership. Mr. Harrington indicated that he feels seniors would prefer better service from taxi drivers rather than a 10% discount. He suggested that if the discount is implemented, it be applied to cash transactions only. He expressed concern regarding the consultation process utilized in preparation of the staff report. He provided a number of additional questions that he believes should be asked of the taxi companies, taxi drivers and other municipalities in order to receive complete information regarding the industry. Mr. Harrington stated that he questioned a number of municipalities concerning best practices utilized to enforce the taxi industry and provided the responses. He concluded by requesting City Council to conduct a fulsome review of the industry before lowering the rates as proposed.
Members of City Council asked a number of questions concerning the information provided and received a response from the presenter.