Need a Lyft? City wants input on taxis, Uber in Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon is revving up ahead of the province’s promise to pass legislation giving the green light to ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft.

Mayor Charlie Clark said Wednesday in a Facebook post that the city is looking for input on its current taxi services, along with people’s thoughts on ride-sharing.

“Every day, taxis are heavily relied upon by both residents and visitors to the city,” Clark wrote.

“We know that many Saskatoon residents and visitors are also interested in having access to ride-sharing companies such as Uber, Lyft, or TappCar.”

People are being asked to provide feedback through a survey – available online or at city hall – until Nov. 17.

Right now, ride-sharing services can’t operate in Saskatoon without changes to SGI licensing and insurance regulations.

“If the provincial government is able to resolve these issues, this legislative work is presently ongoing, the city will be responsible for local bylaws and regulations,” Clark wrote.

The mayor said city officials have met with the taxi industry – including drivers, plate owners, brokers – and other stakeholder groups with interest and expertise in transportation services in Saskatoon.

Clark wrote the city hopes to use public input to help create a “level playing field” between taxies and other companies in Saskatoon.

Council’s standing policy committee on transportation will be presented with a report on the issue of ride-sharing services next month.