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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1997City of Evanston TAXICAB ADVISORY BOARD July 19, 1997 9:00 am. - *11:00 a.m. Board members present: Carol Fortson -Smith, Chairperson Al Bowie Jean Esch Samuel McKinley Board members absent: Caroline Harden Maryland Garrett Staff present: Susan Sabir Stephen O'Sullivan Sgt. Timothy Schoolmaster Other interested participants: Ron Darrus, Norshore Wally Wolff, Norshore Gordon Kasten, Norshore Allen Miller, Norshore Nicolas & Marie Figaro, owners of Magic Cab Co. Carol Fortson Smith (Fortson -Smith) opened the meeting. Fortson -Smith motioned to "suspend agenda" previously mailed out by the City Collector's Office. Jean Esch (Esch) seconded the motion. Fortson -Smith motioned to "suspend minutes" from Taxicab Advisory Board meeting held on June 7, 1997. Esch seconded the motion. Fortson Smith motioned to suspend discussion of taxi complaints, an item that was listed on the agenda. Susan Sabir (Sabir) stated that the Board, in the last meeting (of which Carol Fortson - Smith was not present), requested the presence of a police officer to discuss complaints and violations pertaining to taxicabs. Fortson -Smith stated it would be a secondary item. Fortson -Smith requested board members to review the Legal Opinion regarding Magic Cab. Fortson -Smith stated that there needs to be a resolution on the Magic Cab situation and reviewed the specific points noted in the opinion. She opened the floor for discussion. Esch stated that resolution of this situation lies with the City and it would be their decision how to enforce the ordinance in this situation. Esch also reported she had no interest in changing the ordinance. Fortson -Smith requested items to include in the recommendation to the City concerning Magic Cab. Marie Figaro (M. Figaro) stated that the ordinance is outdated with regard to office and communication requirements. Nicholas Figaro (N. Figaro) stated that the ordinance was written in the 1920's and that it should be updated to accommodate modem day technology. Fortson - Smith stated that the ordinance is in effect today regardless of Mrs. Figaro's opinion. M. Figaro repeated her contention regarding the age of the ordinance and her belief that, if Norshore wished to utilize technology, there would be very little scrutiny. Fortson -Smith reminded the Figaros that they are in an industry that is licensed by government. M. Figaro referred to the packet communication concerning taxicab information available on the Internet. She stated that if they were required to utilize the Internet for service they would go through a similar situation of having to defend their business operation because other associations might not have Internet access. Fortson -Smith noted the purpose of this board was to assess the situation as it relates to the ordinance. The City legal opinion confirmed that they are not in compliance. Samuel McKinley Jr. (McKinley) stated that he did not care about technology, Magic Cab was not in compliance and there should not be any argument over that fact. M. Figaro claimed that she had proof that Norshore had done business with 303 and there was a time when these companies were connected. McKinley debated this point with N.Figaro. Fortson -Smith then ruled that N.Figaro was out of order. Esch explained that the chair will recognize the speaker. These arguments have gone on for several years. Every cab company in Evanston is in compliance with the requirements in question. In some areas Magic Cab is not in compliance. Esch stated that we should make a recommendation to the City to resolve the discussion on this matter. Fortson Smith then entertained suggestions for the recommendation. Esch requested that the City take action to bring Magic cab into compliance, including the issue of the color of the cabs. Esch also believes that the legal opinion was ambiguous in regard to the issue of the colors. Kasten requested that "303" be removed from the door of their cabs. Fortson -Smith recommended that the City of Evanston fully enforce Ordinance 3-19-4-8. Fortson -Smith also asked for stricter interpretation of the ordinance in relation to the colors. Sabir repeated the recommendation back to the board for verification. The recommendation is as follows: "Recommendation that the City enforce section 3-19-4-8 of the City Ordinance and that said resolution is motioned on this date and that the Board members would like back a reply from the City Council." "The Board would like a cleaner interpretation of section 3-19-3-11 (B) as the current interpretation is ambiguous." Recommendation approved unanimously by the Board members present. Fortson -Smith asked that this recommendation be routed via the path noted in the Guidelines for Citizens Serving on Boards. Esch explained that she attempted to contact K. Brenniman of the Legal Department to ask her about the color issue. The Board moved to new business. 0 Sgt. Schoolmaster introduced himself. Schoolmaster explained that licensing requirements of the %' City make it unlawful for a cab owner to allow unlicensed drivers to drive their cabs. The owner of the cab will be cited. A copy of the citation will be given to the City Collector for inclusion in the complaint process managed by the Collector's Office. Fortson -Smith requested clarification. Sabir explained that, in the last Board meeting, it was agreed that taxicab complaints received by the Collector's Office would be categorized and catalogued into three types: Safety Issues, Senior Citizen Taxicab Coupons, Customer Service/Behavioral Issues. The ColIector's Office will notify the owner of the cab and the cab association of the complaint. The accumulation of three complaints in any one category against an individual cab would result in a five-day suspension. This process would be supported by the cab company owner or cab association president. Sabir clarified that this complaint process does not cover the association itself but that, if a complaint is received about an association or cab company the owner/president of the cab company/association is to be notified. Wolff observed that Norshore received such a letter. Sabir then reviewed taxicab complaints received since June 7. The owner of one of the cabs has made an appointment to present their version and supply photographs to refute the complaint. Schoolmaster stated that police department will step up taxicab enforcement on Illinois license violations. Wolff noted that the insurance company requires a license in order to be insured. Schoolmaster stated that three arrests had been made where drivers are driving without licenses. Wolff commented on the high turnover of drivers and observed that the time lag incurred to take and pass the exam delays the licensing of drivers. Fortson -Smith observed that many do not pass the exam. Wolff requested information on the new system started with Collector's Office regarding temporary license. Sabir reviews tow cases where temporary licenses were issued. Clarifies that temporary licenses are issued to individuals who have registered for the next taxicab class or who have passed the class and are waiting for paperwork,. The temporary license is issued to expire with the timing of the class registration or within one month. Before the temporary license is issued, a criminal background check is done with the Police Department (must be clear) and the individual must provide a copy of their driver's license NIV report from the Department of Motor Vehicles. Kasten stated the State doesn't respond in a timely manner. Schoolmaster indicated that, in the past, individuals have lied about their criminal background and have been licensed. He stated that he is happy with the jab that the Collector's Office is doing on licensing and inspections. Kasten asked what happens if the one month temporary license expires and the paperwork has not yet been received from the State? Sabir replied that each situation is reviewed on a case -by -case basis. Fortson -Smith next asked for a review of the last item on the agenda. This concerned the product demonstration on wireless communication sN stems for the taxicab industry. Fortson -Smith stated she would like to cancel the product demonstration on August 16. Sabir objected, -I=ortson-Smith motioned for adjournment of the meeting. Sabir noted that the materials were prepared by David Jennings, Traffic Engineer on the taxicab stands in Evanston at the request of the Board at the last meeting. additionally, Iry Leavitt had prepared his report for the Board on the taxicab stand issue at the Gateway Plaza development. Other participants indicated they would like to discuss the taxicab stand issue. Sabir distributed copies of two memos to each participant and showed the current location of each cab stand on the Evanston map prepared by David Jennings. The memo details the concentration of cab stands on the map. Sabir explained that the City would like feedback from the Board participants on where they would like to see more stands or what their recommendations are regarding the placement of the stands. McKinley requested a map of cab stands. Fortson -Smith stated that smaller maps should be prepared for everyone. Sabir replied that the larger map prepared for this meeting serves the purpose and that interested members can write their recommendations directly on the map to be returned to David Jennings. Kasten began a review of recommended taxicab stand locations using a highlighter. Fortson -Smith stated that the Davis Street station is not safe. She noted that the original stand was on Benson. Schoolmaster stated that some parking garage lights need to be replaced at the station. A lengthy and involved discussion ensued concerning the location of taxicab stands amongst the participants. Ron Dames requested that the Board members introduce themselves. They did so. Fortson - Smith requested the presence of David Jennings at the next meeting on taxicab stands. Schoolmaster thanked everyone present and thanked the drivers for their good tips. He appreciated the cooperation from the drivers. Fortson -Smith motioned for adjournment of the meeting. Meeting adjourned. Board Members Present: Carol Fortson -Smith, Jean Esch, Al Manning, Albert Bowie, Caroline Harden, Samuel McKinley, Jr. Board Members Absent: Maryland Garrett Staff Present: Robert Shonk, David Jennings, Stephen O'Sullivan, Leila Schwartz Other Interested Participants: Wally Wolff, Gordon Kasten, Nicholas Figaro, Marie Figaro, Ron Darrus, Alan Miller Members of the Taxicab Advisory Board began the meeting on Saturday, November 15, 1997 at 9:00 AM in Room 3650 in the Civic Center. + Declaration of Quorum + Approval of Minutes of Meeting of July 19, 1997 • Items for Consideration and Discussion • Status of Magic Cab Company license • Review of taxicab stand location • Other Business • Adjournment Ms. Carol Fortson -Smith, Chairperson of the Taxicab Advisory Board, opened the meeting by introducing herself and stating that there was a quorum and this meeting is taking place on Saturday, November 15. She said the Board will proceed with approval of the minutes of the meeting of July 19. It has been indicated that there are some changes that should be made to these minutes. Page 3, the second paragraph from the bottom. stated that " ti1s. Fortson -Smith asked for ;a review of the last item on the agenda and that Ms. Fortson -Smith agreed to the product demonstration on wireless communication. ,ti(s. Fortson -Smith stated that statement was incorrect. She did not agree to that and would like to strike that from the minutes, Mr. Shonk said he would do that. Ms. Fortson - Smith asked the Board if there were any other corrections. Mr. Figaro said there was another correction on the last sentence of page 1 "Ms. Esch also reported she had no interest in changing the ordinance". He said he needed a clarification on that statement. He wanted to know if the City Council changes ordinances. Ms. Fortson -Smith called on Ms. Esch to see if she had any comment on this. Ms. Esch said she didn't feel her statement had any impact on it one way or another. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there were any further corrections, additions or deletions to the minutes. She asked for a motion that they be approved with corrections that were so noted. Ms. Esch made the motion for approval seconded by Ms. Harden. All those in favor signified by saying aye, and the motion was approved. Under items for consideration and discussion, Ms. Fortson -Smith stated she understood the Board was going to receive information from the City regarding the status of the Magic Cab Company Iicense. Ms. Fortson -Smith paused to make an introduction of Robert Shank, Finance Director. Mr. Shonk acknowledged the presence of Steve O'Sullivan, Inspector, and Leila Schwartz, Secretary, who will be taking the minutes of the meeting. Ms. Fortson -Smith introduced a new member, Al Manning. Mr. Manning requested that people go around the table and introduce themselves. Jean Esch introduced herself and said she was a taxpaying citizen, Caroline Harden introduced herself as a driver; Albert Bowie, Better Cab Association; Nicholas Figaro. Magic Cab; Nlarie Figaro, Magic Cab; Carol Fortson -Smith, Chairperson; Samuel McKinley, Jr., Best Taxi Company; and Gordon Kasten, Northshore Cab. Nis. Fortson- Smith asked the guests to introduce themselves. They were Alan Miller, Norshore Cab; Wally Wolff, Northshore Cab; Ron Darrus, President of Norshore Cab. Robert Shonk then proceeded to state that the City Manager had written a letter to Magic Cab notifying them that it appears that they are operating in violation of an ordinance with regards to twenty-four hour per day telephone service and office and related requirement to have two way radio service from the office. They have been notified that they are in violation of a section of the ordinance and they have been given until December I to bring each licensed cab license into compliance with the ordinance. If each taxicab is not in compliance by December 1, each license may be suspended or revoked. Nis. Fortson -Smith asked if there were any comments. Nis, Esch said that the colors Magic Cab uses are the same as colors as 303, which is the Wilmette Cab Company. It seemed to her that in the ordinance there was a requirement that we use different colors. Lis. Fortson -Smith said she believed there were tm o ordinances that %%ere in non-compliance. Mr. Shonk said that based on our imestigation, the. intormation given to the City Manager %%as that %%e could not find an office with 24 hour telephone service. Nis. Hardin said that was the main one, but there was something else. NIs. Fortson -Smith said the letter indicated «-e felt they were in violation of code 319.311. 319.51 1 and we asked for clarification of 319.31 1 in the way it reads under Chapter 19. Mr. Shonk asked which one was being discussed and i'vls. Fortson -Smith said the one regarding color, 319.311, name and color identification. It says the licensee or association of licensees licensed to pursue the taxicab business in any municipality other than Evanston shall vary the color and design of the 2 licensed Evanston vehicles from vehicles elsewhere licensed so as to distinguish the Evanston vehicle from any such licensed vehicles. Mr. Manning asked Mr. Shonk for a copy of the letter that was sent by Mr. Crum and he stated it was a private letter between the City Manager and the licensee. Mr. Shank said he would advise this committee of the City's position on this after December 1. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there were any questions or discussions regarding Magic Cab. Mr. Manning stated that Mr. Shonk said something about possible suspension or revocation and wanted to know if it was possible or definite. Mr. Shonk said it would be up to the City Manager. Ms. Hardin said if someone's in compliance, or not in compliance, that states the claim right there and she didn't feel that there are any possibles or maybes. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she wondered what kind of action there could be beside suspension or revocation. She said the Board could ask that question at a later date rather than dwelling on it at this time. Mr. Figaro said he wanted to say something regarding this matter. The City Manager sent him a letter and he felt it was out of everyone's hands except his at least until December 1. Mrs. Figaro agreed that the City Manager sent them a letter and right now the matter is between Magic Cab and the City Manager. She said they were going to take it to the proper person and after December 1 the City Manager can inform the Board of the outcome. Ms. Fortson -Smith agreed and said she'd like to move on to the issue of taxicab stand locations. Mr. David Jennings, the Traffic Engineer, then entered the room. Mr. Shonk said he had to leave for a Budget Hearing, but Mr. Jennings would discuss taxicab stand locations.. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she had a call from the Evanston Police Department regarding the number of cabs at the stand near St. Francis. There was some question of the propriety of the drivers in that area. She said she understands that stand was cut down. Mr. Jennings said that as Traffic Engineer of the City, he inherited the cab stands and did not create them. The cab stand system has been in effect much longer than ,"Ar. Jennings has been here, and he's been with the City 16 years. It predates that by another 15 years. There is a history of cab stand locations. Drawing a map is a good idea, in fact he had a sketched map prepared but didn't bring it with him. He said once changes are made, he'll have a map made and will give it to everyone. Mr. Jennings stated that the City has tried to work ,vith a cab stand program and put stands where the need is. In the revitalization of downto%%n. we did remove or move some around. We temporarily relocated the Orrington for months %%hile ue \sere working there and we're just now tr} ing to get the stands back ,%here they were. Fhere is still one at 1800 Sherman that we haven't put back. Prior to the revitalization, there was a stand on the North side of Clark, West of Sherman and that one is going it) go back in. He said he had hoped to report to the Board members at this meeting that it was done, but it hasn't been done yet. Ile said the City tried to maintain service at the Orrington, the one at the Galleria, the old Marshall Fields building, is back. He said he was aware that there were some issues with the locations. The Dodge -Dempster area is lacking, there's a demand for a cab stand in that area. The best he can come up with is a temporary location on the 3 44 East side of Dodge North of Crain, across the street from the Dempster -Dodge Shopping Plaza. There is a development that will be going up which may eliminate that stand. Mr. Jennings knows there is demand in that area. He said if we're talking about the area near Asbury and Howard being the St. Francis stand, maybe we need to look into the area near St. Francis, perhaps the South Side of Austin East of Ridge, right adjacent to the hospital. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked how many stands we have in Evanston. Mr. McKinley said 12 or 13. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if any have been cut down in number. Mr. McKinley said yes, Asbury -Howard is the most recent example. Mr. McKinley asked why Asbury -Howard was cut down. Mr. Jennings said it was done because of neighborhood complaints. It went from an undesignated number down to two. There have been as many as ten cabs in the area recently even after the two stand space was established. It could have held 3 to 4. Originally it was on the North side of Howard, East of Asbury. There was still parking at that location, and that was a 4 way stop. If you read the Code, It's been a while since Western and Howard has been a 4 way stop. It was on the North side of Howard. There is not an opportunity to put anything on Howard at that location. The complaints from the business neighbors on the Asbury side were they disliked the number of cabs and the litter they generated. More than one person complained about the emptying of ashtrays and litter, it wasn't seen as a good, positive thing for the neighborhood. They requested and got approved the limited cab stand that went to a two cab stand, designated with two cabs on the sign and actually marked on the pavement spaces big enough to hold two. Mr. Jennings said the way he read the Code, anything outside of that is termed illegal. Ms. Esch asked if the cab owners are notified of a complaint so they will know there is a potential problem and have an opportunity to deal with it. Mr. Jennings said he had received complaints but didn't react to them until he got an AIdermanic Request to prepare an ordinance to designate this to a two cab stand. He personally inspected the area and spoke to the owner of Mike's and others in the area. The drivers weren't seen as good neighbors to the neighborhood and these people indicated they were not considered to be assets. Llr. Jennings said he should have taken it to the cab owners, but did not. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there's an alternate where a cab stand could be placed near St. Francis on a provisional basis. She thought maybe something could he found close to the hospital. Mr. McKinley asked 4tr. Darrus if he was notified that there were problems. He said he was not. Mr. McKinley asked Mr. Wolff if he -vas notified. lie responded that he was notified by Ann Rainey. She said it was a terrible spot. Nis. Fortson -Smith asked that it sub -committee get together with ILir. Jennings to look at the issue and come up wvith something agreeable, always wvith the thought in mind that you're parking in somebody else's neighborhood, near someone`s home, and always with consideration. Mr. Jennings said that would be tine with him. Nis. Fortson -Smith asked that they set up a date for this meeting. Mr, 'McKinley said they have to meet because every time they turn around, the City is cutting the stands down. NMr. Jennings said the City had requests to shrink the Main E1 more than it was. The 4 City did counts, and tried to match the size of the stand to the number of cabs that were there. He said the Board may think it's an adversarial relationship, but it's not. The City could have gone out and said we'll put in just one or two. We didn't do that. Mr. Jennings said he talked to Mr. Wolff and Mr. McKinley about what the peak times were and went out and looked at the situation at those peak times. The Davis Street El stand was moved from Benson to the turnaround, If it is about three spaces, we could probably move some signage around to put in at least what you had. Ms. Fortson -Smith said the turnaround isn't a very good place. In coming off the El, especially at night or in a non -peak time, you don't feel very safe in the turnaround. She said there was a driver who was picking up passengers on the Benson side and he came and waited. He and another driver from Mr. Bowie's company were ticketed by the Police Department because they were supposed to pick up passengers in the back. Women will not pick up a cab in the back. I won't do it. There's no way out if you're in there. Architecturally it's beautiful. Ms. Fortson -Smith when you come off the El, you should come out the front rather than the back. Because it's on the street, you can hail a car and you can see a police officer. In the back you can't be seen by anyone and it presents a security issue. Mr. Jennings said you couldn't do that during the day. Mr. Jennings asked the Board if they want to have the location switched according to the time of day. Ms. Fortson -Smith said that after ten there are no buses, so cabs should be allowed to park there. Mr. Bowie said Sgt. Schoolmaster was at the Iast meeting and he suggested changing the times. Mr. Jennings asked him if it would be a problem for customers. He said no, he thought it vas the safest way to go. Mr. Jennings said he didn't have a problem with that. Probably the Benson side is a little better lit. He said he wouldn't have a problem with swapping sides based on the time of day. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there could be some sort of signage so people coming; doer from the E1 would know what was happening. Mr. Jennings said a sign could be posted saying "Cab stand at Benson t0 PM to 5 Plvf". Ms. Fortson -Smith asked for a date for the meeting with lvlr. Jennings and stated that Magic Cab should be a part of this Board until December I or until the Board receives notice from the City of Evanston that action has been taken. She said ititr. Figaro has some input that would be essential to the determination of this issue. Mr. NIcKinlev. �lr. Bowie, Mr. Fig;aro and Mr. Jennings agreed that the meeting would be on Saturday. December 6 at 9:00 AM in Room 3650. Mr. Jennings said he would bring; some maps and talk about the major issues and which ones would require ordinance changes. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there «ere and further discussion-, on taxi stands. It' not. she suggested the Board go on to {ether Business. LvIs. Fortson -Smith asked if there was anv ne%% business. Lia. Narden said she would like to bring up the issue she discussed once before. She wanted a spotter or a ride -along incognito person to inspect the: drivers and cabs. She heard complaints made by four people that drivers don't have proper change and that people are being treated badly. Nis. Fortson -Smith said customers can call the Police or the City. 'vIr. McKinley said he came across such complaints and felt that if anything came up in his cabs. he would advise people to get out of the cab and walk away and he would take 5 care of the issue. Ms. Harden said some of these people are women and are intimidated. Ms. Harden mentioned that it was previously stated that something should be put in the Evanston Review about this. It gives good drivers a bad name to have these problems. Mr. Manning said that he could try to get something in the Review in the line of consumer education. He wanted to know if the City has received complaints. Mr. O'Sullivan said he received unspecific complaints without license numbers or identification of taxicabs. He gets approximately 1-2 complaints each month. They are general complaints and the people cannot provide any information. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if these are complaints that come into the Collector's Office. Mr. O'Sullivan said yes, Mr. Manning asked if complaints come into any other areas. Ms. Fortson - Smith said they come into Human Relations too. Mr. Manning asked Mr. O'Sullivan to provide him with a list of complaints he has received at the next meeting. Even if they're not valid, the Board wants to see the list. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if the Board wanted Mr. Manning to write a news release from the committee explaining the procedures and warning people to be aware of problems they may encounter during the holiday season. She suggested they should make it in the way of consumer education, not anti -taxi. It should be phrased, if you have a complaint against the driver, get the number. If you have a complaint, call the City, The Board would like the consumers to know. 1. No change - do not accept the excuse that drivers do not have change. 2. Coupons for disabled and elderly - some drivers say they won't accept them, overcharge people for the coupons or say they have no change. Nis. Fortson -Smith said she'd like the Board representatives to communicate this information to their drivers. It's something that has to be reiterated over and over again. 3. Overcharging because meters are not correct. Mr. Manning felt this might be too lengthy. They should get the name of the cab and the number. N lr. Manning said he will try to get all this into the Review. Ms. Figaro said she wanted to take the part of the cab drivers because they take abuse from the public. She is aware of situations where customers have been abusive to drivers. I ts. Fortson -Smith asked if there was New Business. Mr. Darrus said yes, the last meter increase was on April 15, 1994. Nis. Fortson -Smith said that in the interest of time she would like to table this matter and make it a primary item on next meeting's agenda, She said she felt that meter raises are an important issue that needs to be discussed and in conjunction with that they should talk about the restructuring of our coupon program. wlr. ,NlcKinley and Mr. Bowie agreed that these items should be addressed. Ms. Harden said the previous person taking minutes was going to check into the possibility of a system that Chicago uses to reward their driers. \1r. O'Sullivan was asked by yls. Fortson -Smith and Mr. 'Manning to present the Board %\ith a report giving them a briet'histor% at the next meeting. Mr. O'Sullivan agreed to provide the: Board with that information. Nis. Fortson -Smith said she would like to schedule the next Board meeting. It will be held on Saturday, January 10 at 9:00 Ayr. yls. Harden felt the meeting should be in a room Iarger than 3650 so we will try to hold it in Room 1-402 or 2404. 0 The primary agenda items will be discussion of the possible fare increase and restructuring of the coupon program. Ms. Fortson -Smith said maybe the committee will get some feedback as to what happened over the holidays and anything that occurred at the cab stands and there will be some information about the reward program. Ms. Esch suggested Mr. Manning send some consumer education information to Tony Kelly at the Clarion as well as sending information to the Evanston Review. Ms. Fortson -Smith said there being no further business, she would like to entertain a motion for adjournment. The meeting was so adjourned at 10:03 AM. Respectfully submitted, Leila Schv�um Secretary 7 Board Members Present: Carol Fortson -Smith, Jean' Esch, Al Manning, Albert Bowie, Caroline Harden, Samuel McKinley, Jr. Board Members Absent: Maryland Garrett Staff Present: Stephen O'Sullivan, Leila Schwartz Other Interested Participants: Gordon Kasten, Nicholas Figaro, Ron Damts, Alan Miller Members of the Taxicab Advisory Board began the meeting on Saturday, January 10, 1998 at 9:05 AM in Room 2402 in the Civic Center. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked the Board to take a minute or two to look over the minutes of the previous meeting to see if there were any corrections, additions or deletions that anyone would like to make. Nis. Fortson -Smith stated there were three items coming up on the agenda for this meeting. One was that the Board was waiting for information from the City regarding the controversy surrounding Magic Cab, the second item was a discussion about cab stands and the results of the meeting with Mr. Jennings, and the third item was about possible meter and fare increases as well as coupons. A memo tom Stephen O'Sullivan to Bob Shonk «as distributed and Nts. Fortson -Smith suggested the members briefly look o%,er this memo before continuing with the meeting. Ms. Fortson -Smith announced that Mr. Shonk would not be at the meeting because he was attending a budget hearing. She wanted to know if anyone received a response to the Board's letter to the Council and to the City Manager. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she received calls from several committee members. spoke to several aldermen, and checked the minutes regarding the City's position in this matter. Since the committee has not heard from anyone, Ms. Fortson -Smith was told to draft another letter to the City Manager regarding Magic Cab and to send copies to the aldermen. She asked the Board how they felt about doing this. Ms. Fortson -Smith said they previously wrote to the City and asked for feedback regarding Magic Cab. At the last meeting, Mr. Shonk said that Magic Cab had until December 1 to come into compliance. In the initial letter that was sent, the committee asked for a written response As of this date, no one on the committee has been notified, and the Board has not received a response. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she called Mr. Crum several times but Mr. Crum did not return her calls. Several people on this committee have spoken with Mr. Shonk. He stated that an answer will be forthcoming. The Board doesn't want anything else right now but an answer. Ms. Harden agreed with Ms. Fortson -Smith. So, there never has been a response, Mr. Manning said. Ms. Fortson -Smith said that was correct. Ms. Harden stated that in the minutes it says that if each taxicab is not in compliance by December 1, each Iicense may be suspended or revoked. She stated that there was a December i deadline, and nobody has heard anything. Mr. Manning said according to the minutes, and this is accurate, he asked for a copy of the letter that was sent prior to November 15. Mr. Shonk said he would advise this committee of the City's position after December 1, and no one has been notified. Ms. Fortson - Smith said she was not notified. Do we send another letter'? Ms. Harden said they should request Mr. Shonk's attendance at a Board meeting and the committee should not wait another two months for a meeting. She felt there should be a Board meeting in two weeks. Ms. Fortson -Smith agreed. She then asked Mr. O'Sullivan if he had any information about this matter, and Mr. O'Sullivan said he hadn't heard anything. Ms. Fortson -Smith said a letter would be drafted, she would send a copy to the Board and ask for approvals or deletions, and have everyone sign the letter. Mr. McKinley said he felt Mr. Shonk should attend the meeting in two weeks in addition to sending the letter, to explain if the City doesn't want to deal with the situation or if the City prefers not to discuss it with the Board. i'v1s. Fortson -Smith said that Saturday, January 24 would be two weeks. She wanted to know if everyone was agreeable with that date. At this point, Mr. Manning interjected that as the first order of business, the minutes from the last meeting should be approved. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she asked for additions or deletions, but did not ask for approval. Mr. Manning said that he did not receive the minutes from the last meeting. He said lie did receive some mail, but not that. %Is. Fortson -Smith requested that everyone look at the committee mailing list and make the necessarN corrections to their information. Ms. Fortson - Smith asked it' there %%ere any corrections or additions. She asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Mr. Bowie made the motion to approve the minutes. seconded by Ms. Harden. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked all those in favor to say aye, and asked for those opposed. No one opposed the minutes. its. Fortson -Smith said the minutes were passed as submitted. Ms. Fortson -Smith again asked if January 24 was feasible for the meeting to be held in the same room at 9:00 ANI. ivis. Fortson -Smith said that because the City didn't respond to the matter regarding Magic Cab, they were going to ask Mr. Shonk to attend that meeting. 2 Ms. Fortson -Smith addressed the people that met with David Jennings and asked them to give the committee a report of that meeting. She said she saw Mr. Jennings and he said they really had a good meeting. She said she understood they had another stand in operation at 1800 Sherman. Ms. Harden said there are two spaces at that stand. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there was any resolution on Howard and Asbury. Mr. McKinley said Mr. Jennings was working very hard to find solutions to the Board's problems and is very supportive. Mr. Figaro said Mr. Jennings said he would get back to them, but didn't say when. Mr. Miller said Mr. Jennings was working on some other things but their meeting was very comprehensive. They went through the map, and all the cab stands that exist and talked about some possibilities for new cab stands. One of the key things that came out of the meeting was the communication. They talked about what had happened at the cab stand at Howard and Asbury and all agreed'that they will be more responsive to complaints when they were contacted. They were either not contacted or contacted some time down the road when there was an incident. They felt they could intervene a little quicker regarding the litter and mess by confronting the drivers. Ms. Harden said the owner of Mike's put out two baskets but said that wasn't enough. Ms. Harden said the people at Mike's watched and the mess was created by taxicab drivers. Mr. McKinley said they spoke about a cab stand at 800 Austin and extending the cab stand on Church Street near McDonald's another two more spaces, from three to five. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there was a discussion about a stand at Howard Street at Post 12. Nlr. McKinley said yes but that issue is being put on the back burner since they're redeveloping that area. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there was anything else said about the cabs at the Davis E1. No one seemed to know exactly what was done. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if someone would call David Jennings to rind out if the signs that were discussed were posted at the Davis El. Mr. Figaro said he felt more cab stands were needed on the West side. Nis. Fortson -Smith agreed. Ms. Harden said the West end is residential and there may be a problem putting a cab stand there. Mr. Miller said they discussed that. Ms. Harden said the residents would complain if their streets were littered. Mr. McKinley said they agreed to leave the area just like it was before. Ms. Fortson - Smith asked if anything was done about Main Street. She wanted to know if they were able to get the addition there. Mr. Darrus said yes, but Mr. Jennings said he would have to discuss it further with them. Mr. Miller said they planned to get together with Mr. Jennings after the holidays. They talked about possibilities on the north side. %test of the high school. along Emerson and on Central Street as far West as C'ra« ford. They discussed places they felt needed cabstands. Nis. Fortson -Smith asked them to check with Mr. Jennings about these matters. Mr. Bowie had to leave the meeting at 9:30 Atii and apologized for not staying longer. Ms. Harden said she felt a lot of cab business is generated from food stores in the area where Jewel and Target are located. She asked if there could be a cab stand there. Nlr. McKinley said that's private property and they would have to go through the owner for that. his. Fortson -Smith said she's 3 private property and they would have to go through the owner for that. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she's glad someone brought that up because you can't put cab stands there because it's private property yet our City police patrol that area, and it's private property. They should have private security. Ms. Harden said she would have a cab stand there to facilitate customers if she owned that mall. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if there were any courtesy phones there. Mr. McKinley said there is one at Dominick's. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she felt they need more stands. Mr. Miller said they looked at was the feasibility of cab stands on the West end. One of the things they spoke about was the response time from the Howard -Western stand to the Jewel or Target. It was only five minutes. They talked about putting cabs on the physical lot. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked when a call is made for a cab, does a dispatcher pull a cab from someone else. Ms. Fortson -Smith said that according to the ordinance, cab companies are required to have radio service 24 hours, which means you should have cabs 24 hours. Mr. Manning asked what about drivers that do not want to go to the airport. Mr. McKinley said drivers prefer the $2 and $3 trips rather than going to the airport because they have to come back with an empty cab. Ms. Harden said people think it's good to go to the airport because you're making good money, but actually you're losing money. Ms. Fortson -Smith said some cabs use meters and some offer a flat rate, it all depends on what a person chooses. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she's really concerned about the call time, and Mr. McKinley said she's right, she should be concerned. Drivers should be constantly educated. Mr. Darrus said when it's busy and they have all their cabs on call, they call Mr. McKinley. They do everything they can to please the customer. He gave Mr. McKinley 20 calls to O'Hare on December St. between 4-6 AM because they didn't have any cabs available. He and Mr. McKinley want to best serve the people of Evanston. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if cabs were available at 2:00 ANI. Nir. Datrus said they always have cabs available, there may not be a lot or they may be on calls, but cabs are there. Mr. Kasten said he starts work at 2:00 AN1. Mr. McKinley said he doesn't worry about drivers like Mr. Kasten who have been around, it's the younger drivers that they have to educate. Nis. Fortson -Smith asked the Board what kind of re-education they're doing on the coupon program. She said she was put out of a cab because the driver said he doesn't take coupons. Mr. McKinley said the driver was out of line. Mr. McKinley advised Nis. Fortson -Smith to make a complaint. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked the Board if they could, because this is the first of the year, send a memo to their drivers regarding the coupon program. Nir. Miller said that in their training program their drivers get a packet containing information regarding cab stands. subsidy ofcoupons, etc. There may be a language problem in interpreting this information. Mr. McKinley said the they could make copies of the memo (from Nir. O'Sullivan to Nlr. 5honk) that was passed to the Board regarding coupons and inform and educate the drivers regarding coupons. Nis. Fortson -Smith stated that she felt many drivers think this program is for senior citizens only; however, it's also available for people with handicaps and disabilities. Mr. Miller said when he first started driving for Norshore it was explained to him that it was a senior citizen coupon program. He called the dispatcher when a 24 year old girl presented him with a coupon and said it was for handicapped people. The dispatcher told him it was for the handicapped. Ms. Fortson -Smith said it was not just for 4 handicapped people but also for those with disabilities. A disability is not always physically visible. Mr. O'Sullivan was asked if he received any recent complaints from citizens regarding coupons. Mr. O'Sullivan said he did not receive any. They've just printed out coupons which have a complaint number on the back. They've tried to educate people to remember the color of the cab and to jot down the number on the side of the cab, and advise him of the time of day the incident occurred. Ms. Harden said she has nothing against foreign people but could not understand how owners could hire people that cannot speak or understand the language spoken to them. She constantly gets complaints about drivers that cannot understand. Mr. Darius said that if the City of Evanston issues a Chauffeur's license to someone, he has to hire that driver. He cannot refuse anyone work. He said he has been sued at least 20 times Because of this issue. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she doesn't feel it's a language problem, it's a thought process. Mr. McKinley said he felt that 85% of these people are well educated and that he thought they knew what they were doing. Mr. Figaro said it was easier to read English and understand what's being read than to speak the language. Mr. Miller said that when you give people a mass of information, some is understood and some is not. It's hard to figure out how much is absorbed. He said some things get lost in training. He said some drivers do understand but say they don't understand English. Some swear they can't speak well. He felt that there's a lot of game playing going on. Mr. Miller said he felt the key thing was the rudeness. Some people get treated differently in different cultures. He doesn't feel a lot of our drivers accept our cultures and the way we do business. Ms. Fortson -Smith said she's asking that the cab companies continue to re-educate drivers. liv1s. Harden said the situation was originally set up that complaints would go to the City and the cab owners. If there were three complaints on one driver for the same thing, the license could be terminated for that reason. Generally, complaints are not usually about an old driver. They're usually about new drivers not knowing where addresses are located. When you don't ,give orders to new drivers because you feel they may not know certain areas, the owners call and complain. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked how we compare with other cab companies in the area in terms of taxi rates. Mr. McKinley suggested Mr. Miller explain what the results were of their poll. Mr. Miller said they polled American and 303, the two largest competitors in the area. American is $1.60 for a small part of the area. When they go past Foster or Irving Park Road in Chicago they charge $1.90. When the go past North Avenue they charge $2.40. American is a little different than 303. Ms. Harden asked if they charge a meter and one-half. Mr. Miller said a meter plus. If you go South of Foster Avenue. they charge what they call meter plus. South of Fullerton they charge you a meter and one halt: which is $2.40 a mile. That's pretty steep. With American and 303. if you go from Skokie to Park Ridge. to Lutheran General Hospital, they charge you $ l .90 a mile. If you go West of the Tollwav, they charge you $2.40 a mile. Their minimum rate is about $1.60 a mile. We start at $1.-40 and .70 an additional mile. till. Fortson -Smith said. 1 Ir. Darrus said they also pay a street tax to the City of Chicago. Mr. Miller said they assume you use City of Chicago streets to get to different areas. A lot of Evanston residents don't want to use Chicago cabs to get to O'Hare. There's a $2.00 fee every time you go through the gate. He calls it Checkpoint Charlie. That gets pretty steep, especially when students come back to school. Mrs. Fortson -Smith said she was asked 5 several times if the ordinance provides for a fiat rate. Mr. Miller said there is a tax, there is a $3.00 a day tax and some other taxes pending, there's a ten cent gasoline tax in Cook County. Those are things you must factor in. Mr. Miller said that people may experience fewer cabs in Evanston, particularly when students are going back to school, and they are calling 303 cabs back to Evanston from the airport. Mr. Kasten said his company could be called on their 800 number. When they try to service students from the airport, there may not be enough cabs available for residents. Ms. Fortson -Smith said if they were to talk about a rate increase, and she agrees that they need one in terms of a meter increase, is the committee willing to ask the City to increase the amount the driver gets on a coupon. Should the Board ask the City to subsidize the whole program like some suburbs? Mr. Kasten said senior citizen coupons are being subsidized by cab drivers. The City isn't giving anything to drivers. Some of those rides are as high as $ I0-$ l2 and drivers only get $3.50. That's one of the reasons you find drivers saying they won't take coupons. Mr. Kasten said he takes them anywhere they want to go inside Evanston. If they go beyond Evanston, he charges them an additional fee. Ms. Fortson -Smith said there were times she took a cab for three blocks and gave cab drivers a $3.50 coupon. There were other times when she took cabs a much longer distance. The program was provided to make people mobile. She said she feels that everything balances out. She said she does feel there should be an increase. Mr. Darrus said he was one of the people that originally set up Lincolnwood's coupon system. Lincolnwood has a $2.00 coupon and $4.00 coupon which costs the client a $5.00 fee for the id card and $5.00 a month handling fee and they get so many coupons a month. Skokie has a restriction that you can't go to the airport on their coupons. Originally, Lincolnwood residents didn't have restricted use of coupons. and used them to get to the airport. Mr. Miller said geographically, Skokie is a little bigger than Evanston. They have a $1.45 coupon that is used only in the Village, they have a $4.50 coupon that can be used to go to a medical facility. There are different restrictions for different coupons. There are many approaches and many needs of the drivers. Ms. Harden said some customers are very shrewd. Nis. Fortson -Smith said she couldn't afford to get around without the coupon program. City of Evanston coupons cost $2.00 each and the driver gets $3.50. Ms. Fortson -Smith said the ordinance allows that if the driver feels his safety is in danger he doesn't have to accept calls. Mr. Manning said he was personally refused a cab for 30 minutes because he said he wanted to go to the airport. Mr. Darrus said this amazed him because his company takes calls. Mr. Manning said he called the day before for a cab and ►%as then refused from a 6:45 scheduled pickup to 7:20. Mr. N iller suggested he report this to a manager of the company Mr. Manning called. Mr. Darrus said if he doesn't have a cab available. he calls a competitor. Mr. Manning said he almost missed his pre -paid vacation because of this. Mr. Miller said if dispatcher gives him an order and he turns it do%%n. he'll be taken off the radio for two hours. The next available cab gets it and tills that order. A driver suffers because he refuses. Mr. Darrus said he's had to fine drivers because of this. 0 M Ms. Fortson -Smith asked what kind of increase they would be looking at. Mr. Dan -us said there it should be $ I.70 a mile from $1.40, the meter would start at $ I.40. There would be a 30 cent increase per mile and there would be no increase in starting rates. The 'h mile would be 85 cents. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if that would be fair. They agreed it would. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked what they felt about the coupon increase. Mr. McKinley said coupons should be increased to $5.00. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked if that was fair. Ms. Harden said a $4.50 coupon and $2.25-$2.50 per rider would be fair. Ms. Fortson -Smith said this will be suggested to City Council for the next budget year. A discussion followed regarding flat rates. Mr. Darrus said flat rates to O'Hare save the customer about $8. Companies have various rate schedules. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked to table this matter for the time being. She said on the meter would be $1.40 to start, 85 cents on the half mile. They'll ask $4.50-5.00 on coupons. If the amount goes up on the meter, it should go up on the coupons. Ms. Fortson -Smith said the increase will be for the next fiscal year. There should be 2 papers drafted - one for each increase. Ms. Esch said increases should be based on the history of your increased expenses since the last time there was an increase. There should be something to back it up. Ms. Fortson asked if it would be ok to meet in two weeks - on January 24. She hopes there will be some information back on Magic Cab and that Mr. Shonk will be at the meeting. She said she hopes Mr. Jennings will be contacted and there will be information regarding cab stands, and fare increases will be discussed again. Mr. O'Sullivan was asked by Mr. Manning if there were any taxicab complaints. Mr. O'Sullivan said there were four, but nothing specific, Someone complained about not being able to get a cab quickly at 2:30 AM. He felt the cabs weren't getting to him soon enough. Another incident occurred where someone said a cab nearly hit a woman at Church and Benson. She gave Mr. O'Sullivan a plate number, but it didn't match anything. She said the cab followed her to the grocery and tried to run her over again. It was the same cab, but it was dark out and she may have gotten the wrong number. The other complaint was an Evanston man took a Chicago cab to the airport and he felt there should have been seat belts in the back seat. Mr. O'Sullivan said he looks for seat belts in his inspections as it is a requirement. Another complaint came in this week and he's Iooking into it. There were no further complaints. The meeting adjourned at 10:50 AN1. Resp tfully submitted. Leila Sehw TAXICAB ADVISORY BOARD JL1NE 20, 1998 Board Members Present: Carol Fortson -Smith Samuel McKinley Jr. Al Manning Caroline Harden City Staff: William Stafford Stephen O'Sullivan Others in Attendance: Wally Wolff Ron Darrus Gordon Kasten Irwin Leavitt Nicolas Figaro Members of the Taxicab Advisory Board began the meeting on Saturday, June 20, 1998 at 9:14 a.m. in Room 2402 in the Civic Center. Fortson -Smith stated that there were a number of items on the agenda. The most important being the matter of Magic Cab. The Board asked for a response on their request regarding the compliance of this cab company. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that the board had not received any information from the City since December 1997. Fortson -Smith asked Mr. Stafford if there was any information that lie could share with the Board in regard to the issue. Stafford reported the City had been in contact with Magic Cab and several requests were made of Magic Cab to allow the public to identify them from 303 Cab. Among the suggested changes made by the City were the addition of an "E" to their numbers to designate an Evanston Cab and the removal of stripes that have also made them more distinguishable. Stafford further noted that Magic uses the Gandalf dispatch system and it has been found to be acceptable. Harden asked that the Gandalf system be explained. Mr. Stafford stated that the Gandalf system is a computer dispatch system and invited Nicolas Figaro, of Magic Cab, to better explain its capabilities. Fortson -Smith voiced concern lay with their dispatch address rather than the dispatch system. Stafford confirmed Figaro does have an address. Darrus, ofNorshore Cab, asked if dispatch was performed from that address. Mr. Stafford stated he did not believe dispatch came from the local address. Harden noted the dispatcher must physically be at the office. Stafford clarified that the ordinance does not make that specification, in his opinion. Fortson -Smith invited further continents on this topic. Harden felt that former Finance Director Robert Shonk insulted Board by not making an effort to respond to the issue of Magic Cab. She further stated her concern over Magic Cab's unmet deadline of December 1, 1997. Fortson - Smith asked if this opinion was that of the Corporation Counsel or Mr. Stafford's office. Mr. Stafford stated that this was from his office. Manning requested a written summary of Mr. Stafford's position. Mr. Stafford voiced his willingness to do so. Fortson -Smith questioned Magic Cab's two way radio contact between their Evanston office and each cab. Mr Stafford stated they have an Evanston number and they have two-way dispatch. Fortson -Smith continued discussion with her concern regarding Magic Cab's defiance of the ordinance. Leavitt, of Norshore Cab Association, contributed to the discussion by describing the costs associated with operating a twenty-four hour dispatch. He voiced concern regarding the possible revision of the Ordinance and the purpose of the local dispatch clause and its importance. Stafford contended that he understood taxicabs were a regulated industry. After just over one month on the job he has witnessed the problems with the cabs and as a result of some of these problems the need has arisen for the city to hold a lottery for cab licenses. Fortson -Smith reiterated her desire for a written response regarding Magic Cab. Stafford assured Ms. Fortson -Smith that a written response would be provided. Wolff added to discussion regarding the regulation abuses by outside companies who don't recognize the Senior Citizen / Disabled Persons coupon program. Stafford agreed such abuses would be investigated. Fortson -Smith wrapped up the Magic Cab discussion by asking Stafford to summarize the changes illustrated at the beginning of the discussion. Stafford summarized that the color pattern had changed. Harden asked how is a senior citizen going to discern the difference with such a subtle change. Stafford reminded the board that the ordinance specifies that the colors be different from other Evanston Taxicabs. Leavitt explained the problems experienced by Northbrook with the unlicensed, outside cabs. He also claimed that Evanston will endure similar difficulties. Stafford stated his concern is the safety of the residents who ride in Evanston cabs. Stafford further noted that he wants a thriving cab industry in Evanston. Leavitt noted that if each company abided by the ordinance as written a thriving atmosphere would result. Harden asked Stafford to restate the changes Magic has made. Stafford repeats the list of changes. Harden reads from ordinance 3-19-3-11 regarding the color requirements. Stafford reminded the board that the color must be distinct from other Evanston cabs. Fortson -Smith rereads section 3-14-3-1 l in its entirety. Stafford asks the Board what would be satisfactory to them regarding Magic's colors. Fortson -Smith stated that a color change would be appropriate due to the confusion with Magic. McKinley, from Best Taxi Co., expressed the need to prevent other cab companies from taking from established Evanston businesses. Harden noted that the City is simply trying to avoid a lawsuit by not acting on Magic. Fortson -Smith requested written status on Magic and moved to the next agenda item. Stafford noted that had he been aware of the Board's need for a written status report he would have made a report available. Stafford announces the lottery for the abandoned taxi Iicenses, reviews tile procedures for participation in the lottery, and the requirements of those individuals who are awarded a license. Harden asks if Evanston residents are preferred over residents from other communities. Stafford states that residency is not a requirement. Fortson -Smith requests clarification on perfecting the license. Stafford explains the selection and the perfection process. Darrus inquires about where the licenses were from. Stafford states that they were declared abandoned due to non-existent or unsafe vehicles. Wolff asks if a grace period was granted to allow compliance. Stafford summarized the process that proceeded this action. Stafford further explains that the number of cabs eligible for the lottery was much higher and several cabs corrected the problems and were issued licenses. Manning voiced concern that the board had not been kept abreast of the developments leading to the lottery. Stafford noted that it would be impossible to notify the Board of every decision that is made regarding taxicabs. Fortson -Smith stated that the Board should be notified since it is an Advisory Board and further stated that the communication with some staff members has been poor. Leavitt asks if the City Council has been informed of the pending lottery. Stafford stated that the Council is fully aware of the pending proceedings. Fortson -Smith asked if Mr. McKinley would be eligible for participation in the lottery. Stafford acknowledged that Mr. McKinley is allowed to participate. Manning noted that it appears the board was purposely kept uninformed on this issue. Stafford stated no effort was made to stifle information. Fortson -Smith asked if the Board could expect more communication in the future. Stafford noted communication and contact would be improved. Fortson -Smith introduces the next agenda item: fare Increases. Fortson -Smith notes that the Board had received a report on American taxi's fares at the previous meeting and cites the minutes from that meeting. Fortson -Smith suggested a recommendation be made to increase the fare rates but only after complete investigation and discussion. Also noted that an increase in the coupon rate also be considered. Fortson -Smith further stated that the amount of the coupons does not reflect the distance traveled. Suggested that the individual companies inform drivers of the responsibility for participation. Wolff adds that Skokie has a coupon program that changes the color each month. Stafford asks if this would be a suitable change to make in the program. Fortson -Smith noted that changing colors each month might add to the confusion. Stafford stated that staff would research taxi rates and option for improving the coupon program. Fortson -Smith suggested that the cab associations contribute input to the changes in the program. Fortson states that since there is no additional business that the meeting is adjourned at 10:35 a.m. I +A Taxicab Advisory Board September 12, 1998 Board Members Present: Carol Fortson -Smith Al Bowie Samuel McKinley Jr. Jean Esch Caroline Harden Others Present: Ron Darrus Nicolas Figaro Marie Figaro Al Manning Staff Present: Stephen O'Sullivan Members of the Taxicab Advisory Board began the meeting on September 12, 1998 at 9:12 a.m. In Room 2403 in the Civic Center. Ms. Carol Fortson -Smith stated the purpose of the meeting was to review and respond to the Memo sent to the Taxicab Advisory Board from Bill Stafford regarding communications from the Administration and Public Works Committee. Fortson -Smith also noted that this meeting was a Committee of the Whole. Mr. Albert Bowie summarized a disagreement between two individuals over the ownership of a livery license. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that this should be handled between the two parties in court. Mr. Bowie repeated the story and asked Mr. O'Sullivan for a response. Mr. Stephen O'Sullivan noted that the City was aware of this situation and that the complaining individual was informed as to the City's position regarding this matter. Mr. Samuel McKinley stated that this appears to be a personal matter and not for board consideration. He noted that if an individual overlooked a basic aspect of making a deal they are to blame. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that this was probably a verbal agreement with no paper trail. n. Ms. Caroline Harden expressed concern that the City did not do anything when the situation was brought to the City's attention. Ms. Fortson -Smith restated the purpose of the meeting and addressed the first question on the memo. (Is the number of taxicab and livery licenses appropriate?) Mr. McKinley contended that during the colder months additional cabs would be useful. Mr. Ron Darrus stated that there are more than enough taxis. Norshore has trouble getting drivers and due to the outcome of the recent lottery Norshore has an additional eleven cabs and no business for those cabs. Ms. lean Esch requested an explanation between a cab and a Iivery vehicle. Mr. Bowie explains the difference between a taxicab and a livery vehicle.. Ms. Esch noted that in Chicago, cabs are enforced through an extensive policing effort. She had witnessed private cars occupying the cab stand at Clark and Sherman. No police ticketed these cars while she was watching. Ms. Harden asserted that the police ignore the cab stands. Ms. Esch noted that the Iocal cabs are losing business. Ms. Fortson -Smith stated that cabs are a support business and are essential in Evanston. Fortson - Smith asked the Board if they need to be in contact with David Jennings regarding the cab stands. Mr. McKinley pointed out that it did no good the first time they met with Mr. Jennings; the stands continue to shrink. Mr. Darrus explained that two Norshore drivers got into a fist fight at the cabstand at Howard and Asbury. He also stated that letters are being sent to the drivers, the owners of the cabs, and the City of Evanston. Mr. Bowie asked if these cabs were both from Norshore. Mr. Darrus confirmed that they were. Mr. McKinley reported that officers from the Evanston Police Department contacted him regarding this incident. The cabs weren't affiliated with his company and yet the Police are contacting him before they have any idea about the facts. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that the response regarding the cab stands was inadequate. The space allotted on the cabstands does not reflect the need. 'fhe stand at Evanston Hospital could use 1�� additional spaces. Mr. Nicolas Figaro stated that residents might not welcome a cab stand located near their homes. Ms. Fortson -Smith pointed out that it should be possible to place cab stands so that everyone is happy. Ms. Esch asked if the stand at Howard and Asbury had been reduced. She also noted that this is the stand that services St. Francis Hospital. Mr. Bowie suggested that cab stands be installed near Target and Jewel on Howard. He also noted that a stand could be placed near the other shopping areas that are without this service presently. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked the board if setting a specific time for a response from David Jennings and if sixty days would be an appropriate amount of time for a response. She noted that this would be enough time to consider needs as well as solutions. Mr. Darrus noted that action might be taken in regard to the recent problems at the cabstand at Howard and Asbury. Ms. Fortson -Smith moved discussion to the next item on the memo. She asked the board if the annual license renewal fee appropriate. Mr. Bowie stated that he doesn't want to pay anymore than the current rate. Ms. Fortson -Smith continued the discussion and directed the board to consider the lottery process. She solicited comments from the board regarding the recent lottery. Ms. Harden contended that the lottery was not conducted correctly. She felt that the lottery should have been restricted to only include Evanston residents. Ms. Esch noted that there aren't enough people who reside in Evanston who would be interested in the lottery. Mr. Figaro also noted that people would find ways to circumvent such a rule by having a friend or family member apply who resides in Evanston. Mr. Darrus stated that the City should have established guidelines before conducting a lottery. He criticized allowing; anyone to apply, especially individuals who are not experienced in the operation of a cab and the specifics of the industry. Ms. Fortson -Smith proceeded to the next question on the memo. She asked the board should a non-refundable fee be applied to the lottery. She noted that the process involved processing money in and in the event of those who did not win processing refunds. She felt a non- refundable fee would be appropriate. Mr. Bowie noted that the City did make money. He pointed out that they collected $1250.00 for each new license. Ms. Fortson -Smith clarifies her position. Mr. Bowie agrees that a non-refundable fee would be acceptable. Ms. Esch agreed that firm guidelines would be necessary for future lotteries. She gave an example of limiting once an individual has won any additional applications should be disqualified. This would enable Inore people to have an opportunity to be awarded a license. Ms. Fortson -Smith suggested that instead of disqualifying additional licenses limiting the number of applications to one per person would be a better solution. Mr. Bowie noted that many of the persons who applied wouldn't have the means to perfect the license if they had won. Ms. Fortson -Smith stated that any suggestions regarding revisions to the current ordinance should be considered at a separate meeting after the board has looked at specific areas of the ordinance. Ms. Esch noted that over the last several months individuals were claiming that the taxicab ordinance has not been updated, however it had been reviewed and revisions made. She further noted that former City Manager Ed Martin met with the local cab associations to revise the ordinance. Mr. Darrus stated that he believed that the entire ordinance was overhauled in 1975. Mr. Figaro maintained that the companies must change and deal with market fluctuations. Mr. Darrus reported that since the mid 1970's 303 had 67 cabs, Norshore also had approximately 67 cabs now 303 has 300 or more. He also noted that the increased number of outside cabs have made doing business difficult. Mr. Bowie added that the "small fish" can't compete with these larger outside companies. He stated that Chicago is effective with their tight restrictions regarding taxicabs. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that each member of the board would be able to suggest changes to the current ordinance. She reminded them to be careful with their suggestions since the changes that would be permanent. Mr, Darrus asked the board if they had heard anything regarding the age of vehicles, he had heard that as of October 1, 1998 that all vehicles must be 1992 model year or newer. Ms. Fortson Smith asked Mr. O'Sullivan to confirm whether or not this was true. Mr. O'Sullivan noted that this was not correct and that the current ordinance requires taxicabs must be six years old or newer based on the year they are placed in service. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked the representatives of the cab companies how they or the owners within the association monitor the condition of the cabs. Mrs. Figaro reviewed the manner in which she monitors the cabs in their association. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that the associations should be more active in monitoring the cabs. She further stated that they should make an inspection once per month. Mr. Darrus reviewed Norshore's policy on properly functioning air conditioning and heat in their cabs. Mr. Figaro stated that keeping the interiors clean should be a priority of cab owners. Ms. Fortson -Smith repeated that the companies should make an effort to monitor themselves. Mr. Bowie noted that the City can't monitor each driver or owner all of the time and that some responsibility should be assumed by the driver and/or owner. Ms. Fortson -Smith asked the companies if they can come up with a standard inspection apart from the city's quarterly inspection. She also asked that the drivers be educated about cab coupons. Mr. Darrus suggested the city apply more pressure to owners/drivers who are lax in any portion of the ordinance. Mr. Bowie reported that he had a driver who was telling coupon users that the coupons are not valid after 10:00 P.M. Mr. Darrus noted that much of the bad behavior and rudeness doesn't make it back to the cab associations. Ms. Fortson -Smith inquired why are the drivers allowed to refuse the coupons. She further noted that the drivers know the addresses of those people who use the coupons and the owners are not upholding the enforcement of the coupons. Mr. Bowie stated that if a situation arises regarding the coupons he deals with them personally. Ms. Fortson -Smith noted that in order to review the ordinance it would be helpful to have a representative from the legal department present. She further noted that the board should begirt to review the ordinance individually and make a list of items they would like addressed or IMI changed. The meeting was adjourned at 11:05a.m. 6.