The Pocatello City Council voted Oct. 19 to approve a taxicab driver license for Jorge Gonzalez after hearing his appeal of a denial by police licensing staff.

Mallory Baskin of Pocatello Police Department licensing told the council that she denied Gonzalez’s application under city code 5.56.0.05(E), which requires applicants to be free of felony convictions. Baskin summarized Gonzalez’s criminal record: two felony driving-under-the-influence convictions in 2017 and 2018 that resulted from prior misdemeanor DUI convictions; a suspended prison sentence; and a probation term beginning May 16, 2019, with a successful early release on July 23, 2021. Baskin said Gonzalez disclosed the DUI convictions on his application and had no other convictions since his release.

Gonzalez addressed the council, described completing rehabilitation programs and said he had been sober for seven years. He told the council he has a 4‑year‑old son and needs employment. Council members asked about his rehabilitation, probation completion and current employment prospects; Gonzalez said he had worked for Virginia Transformers and that he was between jobs but had an opportunity with a taxi company whose representative was present to support him.

Council Member Mangum moved to approve Gonzalez’s taxicab license; Council Member Cheatham seconded. The clerk called the roll and the motion passed.

Council members spoke in support of giving Gonzalez a second chance while urging him to continue his sobriety and to “do us proud” as a licensed driver. The council directed staff to proceed with licensing formalities for Gonzalez following the vote.