Mr. Dowser described changes to the Kingston Area Taxi Commission (KATC) website that offer increased accessibility and ease of use. He announced that the KATC had entered into agreements with Loyalist Township and the City of Kingston to provide the Accessible Taxi Program (ATP) at the Kingston Transit rate of $3.25 . He added that the KATC continues to work towards its commitment to have a 25% accessible taxi fleet by 2030.
Ms. Mockler asked how the $3.25 flat rate would be implemented, and how a passenger with disabilities is identified. Mr. Dowser stated that there would be an application process and that upon approval, a passenger would be given an identification card to show the driver when they are being picked up.
Ms. Palmer-Nash asked how the Commission would ensure an accessible taxi is available for passengers when needed. Mr. Dowser explained the Commission's commitment to their acquisition program, ensuring fees from Uber and Lyft ridership would go towards purchasing accessible vehicles to operate within the City of Kingston and Loyalist Township. He stated that their current goal is to acquire four accessible taxi cabs per year.
Ms. Brown asked if the application form for the program would require a doctor's signature. She noted the difficulty this could pose for many residents without access to a family doctor. Mr. Dowser stated that a doctor's signature is not absolutely necessary but would provide some legitimacy in the application process.
Ms. Cotter noted that the application for Kingston Access bus accepts signatures from other medical professionals such as psychotherapists and occupational therapists. She asked if the KATC would consider implementing a booking system that would ensure vehicles with certain mobility aids, such as wheelchair lifts, are reserved for those who need them. Mr. Dowser acknowledged that an individual of a medical trade or profession such as a physiotherapist, chiropractor or an ODSP worker could provide a signature on the application in place of a family doctor. He added that the ATP will also apply to regular taxi cabs, which will allow vehicles such as those with wheelchair lifts to be reserved for those who need them.
Ms. Quin asked if taxi chits could be used in conjunction with the ATP. Mr. Dowser stated that these are separate programs for now but that the KATC could look into how they could work together.
Ms. Palmer-Nash asked about inclusivity for individuals who may only need the assistance of a mobility aid on some days. Mr. Dowser stated that based on the application provided by each individual, the need for their mobility aid would be listed on their client card. He added that at the time of booking they could specify whether they require an accessible vehicle or a regular vehicle.
Councillor Tozzo asked if this program would extend beyond the Kingston urban boundaries. Mr. Dowser noted that the program will only serve the KATC jurisdiction which would allow Kingston residents to travel to Loyalist Township and vice-versa. He added that there are hopes to expand the program in the future with neighboring municipalities.