Consultant pitches Uber regulations for Windsor

Uber and itsdrivers could soon face restrictions about how they pick up passengersin Windsor.

A report outlining how ride-hailingcompanies likeUber could legally operate in Windsor went to the city's transportation committee Wednesday.

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"At the end of the day we have to realize that companies like Uberhave come into our city, they are here, that's reality," said Craig Robertson, the city's licensing director. "If we're going to be licensing we have to have the steps in place to provide protection and keep regulations in place."

The reportlists steps Uber needs to take in order to legally operate in the city.

Those recommendations include sharing background check recordson its drivers, vehicle inspection reportsand proof of insurance with the City of Windsor. The companymust also set up a system for customers to make complaints.

The report is also clear that Uber and other ride-hailingservices are not taxis.

Uber drivers would not be allowed to take cash or pick up passengers on the street. Drivers would also need tobook the trip in advance through an app and need to install signs on their vehicle showing they are contracted by Uber.

On mobile? See the full report here.

The firm Taxi Research Partners wrote the report. It cost the city $27,950.

The report lists two changes for the established taxi industry. It recommends reviewing the fee structureeliminating a minimum charge to allow taxis to compete with the lower prices often associated with ride-hailing companies.

Otherwise, there would be no changes to the number of licensedtaxis and current rules about how checks for taxidriverswould be maintained.

After the report is presented Wednesday, it's scheduled to be tabled for 30 days for public consultation before two public hearings at the committee. The final report will then go to city council.