Following the sudden suspension of taxicab service from Nome Checker Cab, the Nome Common Council is once again reviewing the city’s taxicab code. An ordinance, drafted by the city clerk’s office, was presented to the council at its Jan. 5 regular meeting.
The ordinance proposes removing sections of the city’s taxicab code, including the requirement to obtain a taxicab or motor bus license in order to operate.
The change would essentially open the door for for new operators to enter the taxi business. The current system only permits up to six taxicab licenses. At the time of Checker Cab’s sudden suspension, it held all six licenses and was using three of them.
Instead, potential operators would only need to obtain a chauffeur’s license from the city.
Applicants for a chauffeur’s license must have a valid Alaska driver’s license, be 19 years or older, be of “good moral character” as defined by city code, provide a copy of their criminal history, and possess a valid Alaska commercial driver’s license or medical certificate.
The suspension of service from Checker Cab follows a year of back and forth in the council chambers. Initially, the council reviewed its taxicab code following complaints of poor service by Checker Cab. There were also questions over Checker Cab’s compliance with current taxicab code, which requires prominent identification on vehicles and proof of current vehicle inspections.
The council last took up the issue at an Oct. 27 work session with the city’s attorney, Sam Severin, present. The council weighed revoking the permits for “noncompliance” with current code. At the conclusion of the meeting, Nome City Manager Lee Smith said he would consider the council’s feedback and talk with city staff about “next levels of enforcement”.
The first-reading of the proposed ordinance passed unanimously, with a second reading set for the council’s Jan. 12 meeting. Members of the community may speak on the proposed changes during the council’s public comment period.
