Hamilton examines different course for Uber

Hamiltonnews.com
Feb. 11, 2016
By Kevin Werner

Hamilton politicians have given up fighting Uber at the moment and are examining how to create a new category for the riding-sharing service.

At their Feb. 10 council meeting, politicians approved a motion introduced by Ward 4 councillor Sam Merulla that requested staff to establish a new category for Uber. The report is scheduled be presented to councillors by March 30.

Since Uber began operating in Hamilton, the city has challenged its business tactics, including charging 21 drivers - eight more last month - for violating the city’s licensing bylaws. Last fall council demanded Uber suspend operations until an agreement could be reached between the municipality and company. Uber officials ignored the request.

In addition, the city wants to ask Superior Court for an interim injunction to stop Uber from operating until Hamilton can better license Uber. Politicians have stated they still want to protect the public and establish health and safety measures.

Merulla stated he wants to “create a level playing field for the taxi industry” while also protecting the public.

In an effort to compete with Uber Hamilton’s Blue Line Taxi has introduced a new app for its service.

Edmonton became that first city to legalize Uber to operate within its boundaries.

The city earlier this year establish guidelines for Uber drivers to have safety and criminal record checks; to have insurance; provide minimum charges; and pay an annual fee.

Hamilton’s decision comes at the same time as Toronto taxi drivers backed down on holding a strike Feb. 12. A mass taxi strike in Montreal earlier this week prompted the municipal and federal governments to examine how to block Uber from operating in the province.

Taxi drivers across the globe have been protesting Uber, arguing it is an illegal service.

Uber currently operates in Niagara Region, Windsor, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, London and Kitchener-Waterloo.