Terry Halifax
Northern News Services

Inuvik (June 21/02) - Inuvik will have six more taxis on the road following the approval of new cab permits that were selected in a random draw last week.

Council approved an amendment in the taxi bylaw that would allow for 30 taxi permits -- up from the current number of 24.

The town received 15 applications for the permits, so a random draw was held last Friday to select the six applicants.

Community Const. Randy Shermack said the names drawn are subject to screening before the permits are issued. Among the list of requirements, an applicant must be a permanent resident of Inuvik for the past three months, pass an RCMP check, and have a safe and reliable vehicle.

If an applicant cannot meet the requirements, the next name drawn will be considered for a permit.

Each of the 15 applicants posted a $10,000 deposit with the applications. Once applicants are approved that money will go into the town's general revenues.

"If you are not selected, you will get your $10,000 back," Shermack said.

Council has approved a new livery licence for the town of Inuvik and the new owner is expected in town from Halifax this week.

New cab company

Town manager Jerry Veltman said the new business will start by month's end.

"He's been informed that he's eligible to start up his business and he's been given until June 30, to be actively with the second cab company," Veltman said.

He says the new company will not increase the number of cabs on the road, but give drivers a choice for who they want to work for and also gives customers a choice.