In the heart of West Bend's city hall, council members gathered on December 2, 2024, to address pressing issues surrounding the local taxi service, a topic that has become increasingly relevant as ridership trends shift. The meeting revealed a concerning decline in taxi ridership, a trend not isolated to West Bend but reflective of a nationwide phenomenon. Factors such as the rise of remote work post-COVID, competition from rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and increasing operational costs were identified as potential contributors to this decline.

Doug, a representative from the city's transportation department, explained that while ridership numbers have rebounded since the drastic drops during the pandemic, they have yet to return to pre-COVID levels. The council discussed the categorization of riders—adults, youth, elderly, and disabled—highlighting the complexities involved in accurately tracking these demographics through their contract provider.

As the city approaches the end of a five-year agreement with their taxi service provider, discussions turned to the future of the program. The council anticipates significant cost increases in the upcoming contract, with estimates suggesting a local share of around $200,000. This projection raises questions about potential fare increases, which could further deter ridership.

The conversation also touched on the possibility of collaboration with the county's taxi service. However, historical differences in service levels and regulatory constraints complicate any potential partnership. The council acknowledged that while both services operate under shared ride systems, the city’s quicker response times and more flexible booking procedures set it apart.

As the meeting progressed, the council moved to approve the 2025 shared ride taxi operation and service agreements, signaling a commitment to maintaining transportation options for residents despite the challenges ahead. The discussions underscored the importance of adapting to changing transportation needs in a post-pandemic world, leaving council members and residents alike pondering the future of public transit in West Bend.