City asks for public feedback on Uber

Bramptonguardian.com
Aug. 4, 2016
By Peter Criscione

The City of Brampton is asking citizens to weigh in on plans to regulate ride-sharing services like Uber.

In February, councillors voted to suspend Uber and other ride-sharing operations in the city until the municipality can draft a new roadmap on regulations governing taxis and limousines.

As part of a larger review of the industry, Brampton has launched an online ride review survey at www.brampton.ca and is inviting public input to help shape new regulations. The survey closes on Aug. 31.

Brampton regulates taxis and limousines.

However, ride-sharing services are not compliant with city bylaws. Officials say the review will help create a level-playing field for operators and ensure public safety.

Brampton’s survey covers several areas, including safety, accessibility, role of technology, and fares.

The rise of ride sharing companies like Uber has turned the industry on its head by letting users connect to licensed cabs through a mobile phone app at a reduced cost.

The incursion of ride sharing services on traditional taxi companies has prompted mass demonstrations from cab drivers that want municipalities to clamp down.

Brampton council voted unanimously to suspend Uber operations and pursue “any enforcement measure allowed” if they continue to operate calling it a “public safety concern.”

Council also asked staff to look at increasing the minimum penalty for bylaw infractions from $500 to $5,000.