THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE ABOVE MOTION.
This item supports the Board’s value of cooperatively delivering an efficient and accessible regional intermodal transportation network: Goal 3: Support the development, design and construction of sustainable, multi-modal transportation facilities throughout the County, to meet the demands of residents, travelers, and businesses.
Approval of this resolution (Exhibit 1) will result in the following increases to taxi rates: an increase in the drop rate from $2.50 to $2.95, an increase in the Port/Airport minimum charge from $10 to $13, and a new Port/Airport intra-facility fee (for trips made entirely within either the Port or entirely within the Airport) of $8. Transportation Network Company License and Certified Motor Carrier fees will also be eliminated.
Section 22 1/2-11(c) of the Broward County Code of Ordinances requires staff to submit a written recommendation on taxicab rates at two-year intervals based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures and additional information as deemed appropriate by the Division. Additionally, on November 7, 2017 (Agenda Item 21), the Board directed staff to consider increasing the maximum taximeter rate.
After reviewing existing taxi rates (Exhibit 2) and the Consumer Price Index, comparing Transportation Network Company fees with taxi fares, conducting three industry workshops and extensively collaborating with Port and Airport representatives, the Division recommends that the taxicab meter drop rate be increased from $2.50 to $2.95 (consistent with Miami-Dade), the minimum fare for trips originating from the Port or Airport be increased from $10 to $13 (consistent with CPI increases), and an intra-facility fee be created for trips which occur only within the boundaries of the Port or within the boundaries of the Airport (at the request of the Port and Airport).
If these recommendations are approved, the new maximum taximeter rates would be:
- First 1/6 mile (drop rate) = $2.95,
- Each additional 1/6 mile = $0.40,
- Waiting time per one minute = $0.40,
- Minimum fare for trips that begin at the Port or Airport = $13,
- Port and Airport intra-facility fee = $8.
Finally, at the June 6, 2017 Board meeting (Item No. 23) and the November 7, 2017 Board meeting (Item No. 21), respectively, the Board approved elimination of the Transportation Network Company licenses to adhere to the State's preemption of the local TNC licensing, and approved elimination of the unused Certified Motor Carrier licensing. Approval of this item will eliminate the fees for both these licenses. |