I wish that I had been notified that the new taxi regulations either no longer apply or have been extended past the due date of October 1st.We at Abraxi Taxi struggled and with great expense were able to get our fleet to the safety and mechanical standards set forth by the city and the now defunct Sax taxi.
If we do not have a level playing field which has already been skewed by Lyft and Uber there is little reason or incentive to expand and hire more drivers to spend their money here in Saint Augustine. Nor is there any money left in the kitty to give back to our community. Is there any rhyme or reason to enforcing the regulations in place?
So, my questions are why should we as company be the only legitimate taxi service in this great city? Why is this code not enforced? Other cab companies, pedicabs, shuttles and gas-powered golf carts are not in compliance.
The biggest question however is if Uber/Lyft are not taxis {which indeed we all know they are} why are they permitted to run around around town with taxi lights? They are not only stealing from us they are also breaking the ride sharing rules. Also, many of these unfortunate souls do not even have Florida plates let alone insurance at all.
So please tell me where I can find a copy of the taxi codes and what is being done to enforce what’s on the book if anything, I would rather not waste anyone’s time at a commission meeting. If rules and regulations are no longer required that is also fine and we can make a better determination on how we prepare for next year. Again, wish Denise May the best in her newest career venture.
Saint Augustine Taxi Service 