TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file the Biennial Report on Public Convenience and Necessity Regarding Taxicab Service; the Taxicab, Auto-for-Hire Inspection process; determine that the number of authorized taxicabs is sufficient; and direct that the time period for filing of taxicab applications remains closed. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In May 2000, the City Council passed Resolution C-27694, closing the time period for the filing of taxicab applications until specifically opened by the City Council. In addition, the Resolution requires that beginning in October 2002, the City Manager conduct an investigation into the public convenience and necessity regarding taxicab service not less than once every two years. Based on the findings, the City Manager will recommend that the period for filing of applications should be opened or remain closed. The time period for the filing of applications shall remain closed if it is determined by the City Council that the number of authorized taxicabs is sufficient for the needs of the City.
City staff conducted an investigation into the public convenience and necessity regarding taxicab service (Attachment A). The investigation finds that Long Beach Yellow Cab is providing satisfactory service to both resident and non-resident taxicab customers, and that the number of taxicabs authorized to operate in the City will be sufficient. The recommendation is that the period for filing of taxicab applications remains closed.
Long Beach Yellow Cab Co-Operative, Inc., submitted a report, which cites factors that helped with the evaluation of public convenience and necessity. Although Long Beach Yellow Cab Co-Operative, Inc., is authorized to operate 175 vehicles, only 155 vehicles were operating in 2011, and 157 vehicles were operating in 2012. Due to a stronger economy, the number of taxicabs operating in Long Beach will increase from 157 to 162 vehicles in 2013.
The investigation into public convenience and necessity of tax...
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