Cab Companies Oppose Ride Sharing Services

Taxi Drivers are Concerned With Lack of Oversight

DULUTH, Minn. – Representatives from Duluth’s cab companies spoke out Thursday against ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft operating in the city.

Demand in Duluth for ride sharing services is growing.  But Duluth cab companies are worried about their future if a proposed resolution passes the city council.

Duluth City Councilor Noah Hobbs is in favor of bringing businesses like Uber and Lyft to the city.  But Hobbs says regulating these businesses is important for a level playing field to exist with local taxis.

“We can look at St. Cloud and Mankato,” said Hobbs.  “They have Uber and Lyft operating there without an ordinance to create that level playing field.”

Cab companies say there’s no way for that level playing field to exist because of regulations taxis face regarding insurance and background checks.  Erik Vrooman, owner of Bayside Taxi has a grim outlook for the future.

“When Uber comes in, if they come in, I’m sure it will kill and shut down a lot of companies,” Vrooman said.  “I have just invested into two wheelchair vans I plan to put into service, but if Uber comes I’m not gonna be able to keep that money invested in the company.”

Vrooman says he filled out an application to be an Uber driver and was approved in about 15 minutes.  He added background checks for his drivers can take up to ten business days.

The City Council plans to vote on the resolution Mar. 27th.  If it passes, Uber and Lyft could start operating a month later.