To the Editor:

I am writing this letter to clear up any misconceptions about the taxi service. In October 2009, my wife and I took over the taxi company from the previous owner, who wished to sell due to other business obligations and because the taxi was losing money as it was being operated. He offered the business first to the drivers with the business at the time. All drivers declined buying the taxi service.

Through negotiations, my wife bought the taxi company. All the previous drivers were offered positions; one driver declined and the other two were kept on full-time. Both of the drivers were told that we would keep them on full-time, as long as we could afford to. By the end of November, it was clear that from the revenue generated, changes would have to be made. We called a staff meeting to inform the drivers of the changes we were planning. Only one driver showed up on time, and he was offered certain hours and accepted them. The other driver was informed of the remaining hours available; he declined them and left the employment of the taxi company.

The result of these changes kept the taxi service a profitable and viable business. Early in December, the driver that stayed on suffered some serious health problems, and as a result was unable to continue driving. We sincerely wish him all the best, and a full recovery. We would certainly have him back if and when possible. From December through February, business rolled along, though the long hours were becoming exhausting. We placed an ad for two part-time drivers. We found only one driver with the qualifications and availability we required, and he has turned out to be a valued employee.

From the end of February through to May, business was declining, and we felt that was the result of economic conditions. The conclusion was reached after discussions with other local area business owners and regional taxi companies. Early in May, we reviewed our trip sheets and decided to reduce hours, eliminating dead and non-profitable times. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this has caused, but due to the costs associated with operating the taxi, we cannot afford to operate at these times until business demand meets the operating costs.

Recently, during the weekend evening shifts, we have encountered very abusive and violent passengers, and have had to take drastic measures. The police are not always able to respond quickly to these incidents due to lack of resources and manpower, and the vast area in which we operate, though we thank them for any assistance rendered. Taking this into consideration, we feel we may have to further reduce hours of operation on the weekend evening shifts in the interest of driver safety. Please remember that though we wish to offer the taxi service to all residents of the area, we will not tolerate any foul or abusive behaviour. Sober or intoxicated, this behaviour is never acceptable. Use of the taxi is not a right — you can and will be denied service.

Now to clear up any other notions about the taxi service, many of you have asked why are the rates so high. Well, the taxi service has, in fact, had no rate increase, other than the taxi cost index, since 2006. In fact, at present the taxi rates here in Creston are approximately 30 per cent less than the rates in Cranbrook. We are striving to keep the rates at this level, although revenue generated and associated costs will dictate whether this will be possible.
As for why we do not offer credit card or debit, under provincial regulations the taxi industry is not allowed any surcharge for offering this service. The monthly costs and transaction fees for this service would have to be borne by the taxi company, thus reducing the very small profit that we do make and rely on for a living. As for credit, we do, in fact, offer credit if you are willing to come in and fill out a credit application. Approval and processing may take 30 days; if approved, a probationary period and credit limit will be granted.

Asking for credit in the taxi because you're short of money or don't have any will not be allowed, and service may be denied. The driver may indeed ask for a deposit when you get in the taxi. Some customers seem to spend all their money on beer, but forget to keep any for a ride home, and then say “Stop by the house tomorrow and I'll pay you.” I don't find this an acceptable way to operate a business. I don't think the grocery store would let me go in, pick up a steak and walk to the cashier and say “I don't have enough money; stop by the house and I'll pay you tomorrow.”

I hope this letter has cleared up some stories and answered some questions we have heard and been asked. We wish to thank our many valued customers for their support and business. We look forward to seeing you again and for your continued support. To any customers I may have offended along the way, I offer my most sincere apology and ask for your forgiveness and patience. If anybody wishes to discuss any of these issues or any others, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Kerry Clark
Creston Valley Cab Co.