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Astoria council asks staff to draft ordinance to allow ride‑hailing services
Summary
Council members signaled support for drafting an ordinance to allow transportation network companies (e.g., Uber, Lyft) to pick up passengers in Astoria and asked staff to return with comparisons, taxi-code implications and a draft by June.
The Astoria City Council discussed whether to allow transportation network companies (TNCs) to operate in city limits and directed staff to prepare ordinance materials for council consideration, with an anticipated return by June.
Councilor Conklin framed the change around safety and late‑night availability, saying ride‑hailing would expand options for residents and visitors. "I think having this would just give, a lot more availability," Conklin said, noting business and enforcement concerns during busy weekends. Councilors asked staff to clarify differences between TNCs and taxi services, to examine how neighboring jurisdictions handle ride‑hailing, and to consider how to coordinate cross‑jurisdictional operations. Councilor Adams urged the council to analyze taxicab code implications and labor considerations for drivers who often work part‑time. Staff agreed to assemble comparative ordinances, definitions and likely regulatory options and to return with a draft ordinance in the coming weeks.
Why it matters: councilors said expanding ride‑hailing could reduce drink‑driving risk, improve access during high‑demand periods and complement existing taxi companies, but also raised concerns about driver turnover and cross‑city coordination.
