City Council Approves Taxi Fare Increase for Improved Senior Services

Los Angeles City Council has approved a significant increase in taxi fares for the first time since 1986, responding to rising operational costs and ongoing complaints about service reliability. The council voted unanimously to raise fares by approximately 11%, a move that aims to improve taxi service for the city’s senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, who heavily rely on these services.

Currently, around 90,000 seniors and disabled individuals are registered in the city’s ride program, with approximately 5,000 seniors utilizing taxi services daily. Despite the high demand, many residents have expressed frustration over the inability to secure timely taxi pickups, particularly during peak hours. Council members highlighted that some constituents have reported waiting hours for a taxi, which has prompted increased scrutiny of service compliance.

The fare increase comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance service quality. Councilman Savornich noted that the operational costs for taxi services have risen by 28% since the last fare adjustment, indicating that the increase is necessary to maintain service standards. The council has also mandated a report within 30 days to assess the needs of seniors and ensure that the fare hike translates into improved service.

In a separate matter, the council addressed a long-standing issue regarding a public street easement in Council District 11. A property owner, who has been paying taxes on a city street for decades, will receive compensation of $10,496 for the back taxes paid since 1983. This decision reflects the council's commitment to fairness and accountability in municipal dealings.

These actions underscore the council's focus on addressing community concerns and ensuring that essential services meet the needs of all residents, particularly vulnerable populations. As the city moves forward, the council will continue to monitor taxi service performance and explore further improvements to enhance accessibility and reliability for all Angelenos.