08-09-99 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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Personnel and Finance Committee August 9, 1999 Page 2 Jim Patton voiced concern about having to be licensed under different regulations in South Bend and Mishawaka. Ann-Carol Nash noted that the Council Attorney had suggested language regarding being on parole or on probation as part of the background check which would amend two (2) pages. Ms. Nash noted that current drivers would be grandfathered regarding these provisions. Council Member Pfeifer noted that she has worked for many years in the criminal justice fields and hoped that the process being proposed would allow those individuals who have turned their lives around to be considered for gainful employment in the taxi industry. She noted that there is an appeal procedure which should permit letters of reference and character witnesses to present evidence on a case by case basis. Council Member Sniadecki also voiced concern about the background check procedures which include a twenty (20)year and ten(10)years checks. li Council Member Kelly noted that this is a tough call but hoped that the provisions are properly balancing the right of the public and the rights of the individuals wishing to drive a taxi. Council Member Varner questioned Brian Hedman if he was satisfied with the overall changes to the proposed ordinance. Mr. Hedman noted that since taxicab drivers act as "ambassadors" of our City, that many of the provisions will be helpful toward that end such as the dress code, background checks, etc. He offered to have classes for the taxicab drivers with the Visitor and Co nvention Bureau to that they will have current information o n the many offerings s and events of our communities. In response to a question from Council Member Ujdak,Ms. Nash stated that current taxi cab drivers would be exempt from the background checks as part of the grandfathering. The Quick Cab Company representative voiced concern over the suspension procedures and believes that the company should not be penalized when an individual driver is held in violation. He stated that the Administration of the City of South Bend needs to have better communication with the companies in these areas. Council Member Aranowski noted that the Bill has been in review for over 1 1/2 months and believes that it properly balances public safety and driver safety. He stressed that it must be enforced by the City Administration. Council Member Sniadecki inquired as to the penalty for violating the dress code. Ms. Nash stated that Code Enforcement and/or the Police Department would ticket for such violations with fines ranging from$25.00 to$ 100.00. •