Taxi cab rates in Prince Edward County haven’t seen an adjustment in 14 years and an increase isn’t coming yet.
Council in Prince Edward County met virtually and following a lengthy discussion, the matter was sent back to staff to amend the proposed fare rates in an improve affordability.
The proposed rates would see all fares within the Picton town limits set at $10, with all fares outside of Picton but within two kilometres of Picton set at $12. All other locations would be adjusted to an average of $1.80 a kilometre.
This seemed to be too high for many and Councillor Ernie Margetson addressed that concern.
He questioned if the rate structure within the urban area be looked into further and more feedback gathered from the community.
Councillor Janice Maynard suggested having the motion deferred to have it re-worked saying the chances of people taking a taxi right now are slim to nil and considering the time we are in, implementing a gradual increase.
Margetson said the spirit to update the by-law is there, but the fees need another look at.
Chief Building Official Andy Harrison says company owners suggested without an increase they may not be able to continue operating due to the increase in their operating costs. The current rates haven’t been amended since June 2006.
Other changes would see licence renewals changed from September to March. This would allow for the processing of applications for licences during a less active time of the year for by-law officers.
The mechanical fitness certificate would also only be needed on an annual basis at the time of renewal, instead of semi-annually; reducing operator costs.
Also, applications for new or renewal licences for owners and operators must now include a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector screening.
A new addition to the by-law would see taxi cabs compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilites Act and the Integrated Accessibility Standards.
This would prohibit owners and drivers from charging a higher fare or additional fee for people with disabilities and from charging a fee for the storage of mobility aids or mobility assistive devices.
Margetson asked about service animals as they were not mentioned in the updated by-law.
Harrison says according to the AODA, service animals allowed in taxis and AODA requires them to be taken and he would make those changes to make sure it is included.
Maynard requested a referral to staff for a revised fare schedule and implementation to improve affordability and strengthen accessibility sections.
The motion passed by a vote of 8-6 and the matter will be looked at again in May at a future council meeting.
