Taxi Fare Increase Gets Green Light

Friday, 3 May 2019 07:25

Kendall Cab Co., Woodstock Taxi, and United Cab Woodstock proposed a raise on their current rates, along with changes to the current zone boundaries.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock City council will increase taxi fares for cab drivers.

Kendall Cab Co., Woodstock Taxi, and United Cab Woodstock proposed a raise on their current rates, along with changes to the current zone boundaries.

Mayor Trevor Birtch says different factors played a role into making a decision.

"Seeing the large increase that has taken place over the last five years with insurance and operating costs, minimum wage and the price at the pump for gas, we combine that with the growth that the city has had over the last five years, new areas, more houses north of Pittock and new industrial and commercial areas to our east and south. It was time to listen to those needs of the taxi companies. Council is open to suggestions in the future from Uber and Lyft and other internet-app run ride share programs and tonight when you look at the Zone 1 fare it increased by $1.00. So a $1.00 increase, going from $9.00 to $10.00 over a five-year period, it may sound like a lot, but it's actually pretty reasonable considering they get people to where they need to be safe and sound."

All zone fares will vary in cost for residents.

Zone A will increase from $9.00 to $10.00, Zone B will see a slight rise from $9.50 to $11.00, Zone C will jump from $10.00 to $12.00 and Zone D will go from $11.00 to $14.00. Zone E is new due to the additional lands in the city, which will be $15.00.

Mayor Birtch says staff compared the city's current cab rates in other communities before reaching a decision.

"City staff looked at a number of communities, including those that have flat rates, zones as well as those that are metered. And looking at the cost per trip these new fares would come in very favourable, middle of the road compared to other communities."

The last fare increase for cab drivers was in 2014.

He says this will also benefit the community too, allowing passengers to save some money.

"One of the things that's been taken into consideration in these fares is that actual seniors receive a discount and you can have additional passengers in that vehicle, so if you're going to that zone that costs a lot of money to get to work try and carpool."

The new increase will go into effect after the by-law has been passed by council, which will be before June.