Orlando officials approved the first increase to the city’s taxicab rates in over a decade.
During the Orlando City Council meeting on February 20, commissioners approved a resolution to establish a taxicab rate increase.
The resolution establishes an increase of 35 cents for the first quarter mile, and 10 cents for each additional quarter mile thereafter. The increases bring the new taxicab rate to $2.75 for the first quarter mile and $.70 for each additional quarter mile thereafter.
According to city records, there have been no increases to the city’s taxicab rates since 2012.
The resolution cites the “economic well-being of the taxicab industry” as the main reason for the increase, claiming the increase is “necessary and appropriate” to “partially offset growing expenses reflected in increases to the consumer price index.”
According to the city code of ordinances, the city’s vehicle-for-hire administrator reviews meter rates and surcharges by taxicabs. One time per year, the administrator determines the percentage change in the consumer price index. If the increase is 6% or greater, the administrator may recommend an increase in the taxicab meter rates.