Iowa City council favors changes to taxicab rules

The City Council Tuesday night took the first step in changing taxicab regulations, including requiring cabs to have meters and companies to operate at least four cabs.

The council voted 7-0 in support of the first considerations of two ordinances related to taxis. Two more votes on each ordinance are necessary.

Following concerns of price gouging, rates would have to be based on time and distance. Destination rates – like charging a certain amount per person to go to Kinnick Stadium – would be allowed but must be posted on a rate card in a vehicle.

Other changes include requiring companies to handle dispatching from an office and to keep at least one vehicle in service 24 hours a day seven days a week.

The few representatives from cab companies who spoke at the meeting were mostly in favor of the changes but said they would prefer a color scheme be required for vehicles so cabs are easily identifiable.

If approved, most of the changes would take effect March 1, 2011. Requiring rates based on time and distance would start next month.