After lifting of cab cap, city will begin accepting applications for new taxi permits

For the first time in decades, applicants for a public passenger vehicle permit to operate a taxi in Milwaukee will be able to apply without regard for a cap on the number of permits issued, and receive provisional permission to begin operating the day of their application. On a unanimous vote, the Milwaukee Common Council passed legislation last month that did away with the cab cap and created a more streamlined application process, allowing drivers to sign an affidavit affirming their record is clean and receive a provisional permit immediately upon their application. The legislation will allow network companies like Uber and Lyft to operate legally, and Alderman Robert Bauman, who as chair of the Public Transportation Review Board helped author the legislation, said it creates a level playing field for all drivers while ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers. Alderman Bauman and City Clerk Jim Owczarski, whose office oversees the License Division, will kick off the application process with a news conference Tuesday at 8:15 a.m. Alderman Bauman said the first 10 applicants will receive a commemorative gift. Applicants are asked to visit milwaukee.gov/license and prepare their application materials ahead of time. What: News conference – First new taxi permit applications accepted When: 8:15 a.m. – Tuesday, September 2, 2014 Where: License Division, City Hall rotunda – 200 E. Wells St.