Ian Joseph, president of the United Taxi Company (UTC), moved Thursday to calm public concern over proposals to regulate ground transportation at V.C. Bird International Airport, saying the measures would not restrict relatives from picking up friends and family.
Joseph says that confusion over the plan had created “a misunderstanding” in the community. “I want the public to know that there will never be restrictions on families picking up loved ones,” he said. “What we are targeting are individuals who are not authorized to operate taxi services but come to the airport to collect passengers for money.”
The clarification followed a meeting earlier this week between UTC, other transport groups, and the attorney general to tackle the long-standing problem of illegal “fly-by-night” taxi operators. Proposals discussed included a vehicle sticker system, premiums and royalties to UTC from non-members, and tighter monitoring at the airport.
Some of the ideas drew criticism from residents who called them excessive, but Joseph said the intent is to improve fairness, security, and order for both drivers and travelers.
