§ 37-8. Same—Investigation of application and approval.

(a)

Upon receipt of an application for franchise, the director shall conduct an investigation and make findings of fact concerning public convenience, necessity and other relevant factors, including, but not limited to:

(1)

The number of taxicabs presently in operation in the city;

(2)

The public transportation needs of the city and the adequacy of existing transportation services, including existing taxicab services, to meet those needs;

(3)

Whether existing services can render the proposed additional taxicab service more efficiently or effectively than the applicant; and

(4)

The effect of the proposed additional taxicab service on traffic conditions, and existing services and public mass transportation.

(b)

The director shall examine the income statements and insurance submissions and make a recommendation concerning the fiscal responsibility of the applicant.

(c)

The applicant for franchise has the burden of proving that the public convenience and necessity require the proposed taxicab service and that the applicant is qualified and financially able to provide the service proposed in the application to the city.

(d)

Within a reasonable time following the date of application, the director shall report in writing his findings of fact and recommendation to the city manager for transmittal to the city council. The city council shall then hold a public hearing to consider whether the franchise should be granted.

(e)

A nonrefundable application fee of five hundred dollars ($500.00) shall be submitted with the application for franchise or transfer of franchise.

(Ord. No. 5009, § 1, 8-14-86)