Dear Editor:
Re: “A fair question — City investigates issuing 20 additional taxi medallions” (news article, Oct. 20): While I am in agreement with raising “a few dollars” for the city, as Mr. Drasheff stated, I disagree that issuing more medallions is the way to accomplish that, at the present time. I have a few concerns and one being the current taxicab drivers Hoboken has and their livelihood.
My concerns extend further to the present situation that the taxicabs are working under. I believe, as Councilman Soares does, that a taxi reform plan must be put into place first, prior to the increase in the number of cabs. Waiting in line for a cab and then being bounced from one to another because of the convenience of the driver’s route is wrong. I have also experienced a discrepancy in the fare that is being charged from one ride to the next. And while most cabs will not pick up a customer who is not at the designated downtown stand, I have seen such cabs accommodate those individuals in the middle of town, perhaps on their way back to the stand.
I totally support Councilman Soares in his view that reform has to take priority before additional cabs be placed. Implementing an uptown taxi stand is beneficial to the rider as well as the drivers. Posting and enforcing fares is essential. A dispatcher would also provide the coordination and efficiency that is now lacking.
There is no question, I believe, in anyone’s mind that Hoboken is moving forward, developing and maturing. New apartment buildings are to be constructed and successfully inhabited. The Light Rail is coming to town and additional ferry service has been established for our city. If a service is provided in a safe, fair and efficient manner I believe all will benefit.
Raymond DePhillips