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Walton County puts rideshare pilot RFP on hold after public concerns
Summary
County staff described a proposed on-demand, county-funded rideshare pilot for a defined South Walton area; public testimony and commissioners' concerns over private competition led to motions being withdrawn and the item taken off the floor for further study.
Walton County staff presented a draft request for proposals (RFP) to pilot an on-demand, county-sponsored rideshare service in a limited geographic area (examples included Miramar Beach or sections of 30A). The pilot would be advertised to solicit pricing and operational proposals; staff noted some counties have secured grant matches to offset costs.
Public commenters and one commissioner warned the county-funded service could undercut local private operators (Uber/Lyft and smaller local vendors) and asked for careful design to avoid market distortion. Commissioners also questioned geographic scope, hours of operation and whether the pilot would be 7 days/week.
Board members ultimately withdrew the motion to advertise and asked staff to meet with stakeholders and refine the pilot parameters before pursuing an RFP. No funds were committed; the item was continued for additional outreach and analysis.
