Taxi fares going up in Melfort

The city’s only taxi company, Stoney’s Taxi, was asking for an increase because of the rising cost of pretty much everything.

“Price of gas, price of tires, price of insurance, price of repairs…everything is up,” owner Gary Stoneman told northeastNOW.

While the taxi company had asked for the increase, approval had to come from city council, because that’s the body that governs taxi service in the city.

Stoneman, who has been in the business for several years, said in a letter to council that it was time for an increase.

“The current fees are inadequate,” said his letter to city council.

City councillors passed the increase unanimously.

“The cost of operation of any type of vehicle or equipment or machines have gone up drastically in the last little while,” councillor Brian Enge told northeastNOW after the meeting. “A taxi service is something that Melfort does need.”

A report to council said most taxi customers in Melfort are getting rides to grocery stores, or medical appointments.

“Having a viable taxicab service in Melfort provides transportation for people who do not have access to a vehicle,” it said.

Stoneman said his company averages anywhere from 10 to 25 rides per day.

doug.lett@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @DougLettSK

by Doug Lett

Taxi fares going up in Melfort

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