Taxi drivers and medallion holders tell commission illegal cabs are 'out of control' and a public‑safety risk

Several speakers during public comment told the Police Commission that illegal taxis and limousines are operating widely in San Francisco and that enforcement is insufficient.

Barry Korngold, president of the San Francisco Cab Drivers Association, brought photographs and told commissioners, "they're taking our business" and called the situation a public‑safety concern because passengers are being solicited by vehicles that appear to be taxis but lack licensing and oversight.

John Barry, a former taxi commissioner, and Hansu Kim of the San Francisco Taxi Coalition corroborated those worries and urged the commission and city departments to use existing medallion fees and MTA budget lines to fund dedicated enforcement resources. Karl McMurdo of the Medallion Holder Association also warned of escalation if illegal fleets are left unchecked, pointing to incidents in Los Angeles where fake cabs produced serious crimes.

Commissioners acknowledged the issue and discussed staffing of the taxi detail and interagency coordination with the MTA and SFPD. Several speakers asked that the department use targeted outreach, staffing and towing authority to remove unauthorized vehicles, and requested that the commission facilitate release of funds or staffing allocations so the taxi detail can enforce city regulations.

The commission did not take immediate formal action on the comments but directed staff and the chief to coordinate with affected agencies and report back on enforcement options and resource needs.