(a) A criminal records background check is required for applicants for a certificate under this article, in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare. Such background check shall be conducted by the police department in conformity with state law. The result of the background check can determine the suitability of the applicant.
(b) If the city council finds that further taxicab service in the city is required by the public convenience and necessity and the applicant is fit, willing and able to perform such public transportation and to conform to the provisions of this chapter and the rules promulgated by the city council, that the applicant has filed proof of financial responsibility as required by state law, and that the background check shows that the applicant will not threaten the public health, safety or welfare, the city council shall direct the city clerk to issue a certificate stating the name and address of the applicant, the number of vehicles authorized under such certificate, and the date of issuance. Otherwise, the applicant shall be denied.
(c) In making the above findings, the city council shall take into consideration the number of taxicabs already in operation, whether existing transportation is adequate to meet the public needs, the probable effect of increased service on local traffic conditions, the character, experience and responsibility of the applicant, and the results of the criminal background check.
The city clerk shall not issue a permit required by this article to any person who, as a result of the investigation and background check:
(1) Appears to be of unsatisfactory character or a threat to the public health, safety or welfare; or
(2) As a result of the criminal background check, is deemed by the city council to be unfit to conduct the activities for which the license is applied.
(Code 1982, § 6-1005; Ord. of 11-22-88; Ord. No. O-03-02-18-3, § 2, 2-18-03)