Taxi fare increases took center stage at the Columbus City Council meeting on November 13, 2024, as officials discussed a proposed adjustment to meter fees for taxi services. The last fare increase occurred a decade ago, prompting the Department of Public Safety to recommend a modest rise in rates to support local cab drivers.

The proposed change would raise the meter fee from 45 cents to 50 cents for every two-ninths of a mile, translating to an approximate increase of 25 cents per mile. This adjustment aims to provide taxi operators with a better income while remaining competitive against rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, which currently offer different pricing structures.

Council members expressed support for the increase, noting that it aligns with fare structures in other major cities, including New York, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, and Nashville. The proposed fare hike is seen as a necessary step to ensure that taxi drivers can sustain their livelihoods after years without a rate adjustment.

The discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining a viable taxi industry in Columbus, especially as rideshare options continue to grow. Council members acknowledged outreach from local cab drivers advocating for this change, emphasizing the need for equitable compensation in the face of evolving transportation dynamics.

As the council moves forward with the proposal, the anticipated outcome is a more balanced playing field for taxi services, allowing them to thrive alongside their rideshare counterparts while providing fair wages for drivers.