MontCo Taxi Co-Op Moves Forward

A co-op owned and run by Montgomery County taxi drivers took another step toward reality on Monday when the Montgomery County Council Transportation Committee approved some key proposals.  “While we are happy that we’ve gotten this far, we’ll continue to fight,” said Montgomery County Professional Drivers Union president Peter Ibik. The proposals, which go to the full Council at the end of July for a final vote, include a modernized dispatch system for drivers, lower credit card rates and a voice for drivers in determining their lease rates and other fees. The legislation would also provide protection for drivers from unfair termination, harassment, and disputes with fleets. “The current taxi system in Montgomery County is not working for drivers and passengers,” said Ibik. “A driver run and owned co-op is a better model to insure a viable taxi system for the disabled, senior, and the poor who live in all areas of Montgomery County.”

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