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Muni Asks Paratransit Fee Extension

Muni is seeking an extension of the fee it has been charging the taxi industry to help allay the costs of the paratransit program.
When the meter and gate cap last increased in January 2003, the Board of Supervisors authorized an extra 10 cents on the flag drop and $1.50 on the gate to reimburse Muni for increased costs to the program. The temporary subsidy expired on Dec. 31.
Muni asked for a two-year extension of the fee. UTW and cab companies opposed the extension, but a board committee approved a one-year extension.
In a letter to the board, UTW pointed out that the charge was supposed to be temporary and that Muni’s taxi costs decreased after the charge was approved.
When the matter came to the full board Jan. 10 Supervisor Chris Daly asked for a two-week postponement of the vote on account of UTW’s objections. The matter was rescheduled for Jan. 24, beyond our press deadline.