Explanation
1. BACKGROUND:
This ordinance amends Chapter 585 and enacts a new section in 585 in the City's Vehicle for Hire Code as it relates to the addition of peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers in the city of Columbus.
Since November 2013, the City has been working to create new City Code that would incorporate peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers into the Vehicle for Hire Code. Peer-to-peer companies are new to the City of Columbus and are a growing trend in the vehicle for hire industry. Public Safety began meeting with peer-to-peer companies six months ago to gain a better understanding of how these companies operate and how they interact with drivers. Through these meetings, the City has created regulation that is consistent with the City's overarching requirements for the entire vehicle for hire industry.
The changes in Chapter 585 will add several definitions to include peer-to-peer and will add representation from this industry to the Vehicle for Hire Board. The addition of Section 585.051 will determine the election procedures for adding a peer-to-peer company member to the Vehicle for Hire Board. There are several additional changes that update terminology and provide clarification.
2. FISCAL IMPACT: None
Title
To amend Sections 585.01, 585.03, 585.04, 585.05, 585.06, 585.07, 585.09, 585.11, 585.12, 585.13, 585.15 of the Columbus City Code; and to enact Section 585.051 of the Columbus City Code in order to include peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers as vehicles for hire.
Body
WHEREAS, there is a need to amend various sections in Chapter 585 of the Columbus City Code to define peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers; and
WHEREAS, there is a need to enact Section 585.051 that will determine the election process for adding a peer-to-peer transportation network company member to the Vehicle for Hire Board; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance will make the code more accessible by updating terminology and clarifying phrases; and
WHEREAS, these changes will support the progress of the industry and ensure a more positive experience for customers; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance establishes language and authorizes the amendment of various sections of Chapter 585 and the enactment of Section 585.051 of the Columbus City Code for the above-described purpose; now, therefore
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SEE ATTACHMENT.