Council questions taxi plan

During Anderson's 2003 re-election campaign, the Yellow Cab Drivers Association contributed $500 to the mayor, and many drivers put Anderson campaign advertisements on their vehicles. During the primary, many offered free cab rides to the polls to anyone who called Anderson's campaign needing a ride.

After a complaint was filed, the city elections clerk ruled Anderson had to claim the free rides as a campaign contribution.

Ridge and challenger Frank Pignanelli's campaign also complained that Anderson should have reported the advertising as a campaign contribution. Ridge estimates the advertising was worth more than $60,000.

Anderson has denied the contributions and advertising affect his decisions.

Saxton said part of the city's motivation seemed to be that if the new rules were passed, Yellow Cab would drop its 3rd District Court lawsuit against the city over 33 disputed cab licenses.

The council scheduled a public hearing on the proposed changes for Aug. 24 at the earliest.

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