Uber Coming to Rochester?

Rochester, MN  (KROC AM News) - The Uber company is taking a serious look at the Rochester area market.

Representatives have been in contact with the city and have expressed interest in meeting with the City Council in the near future.

City Attorney Terry Adkins says the Council would have to modify the current ordinance that controls taxicab franchises. Adkins says one of the biggest changes would be dealing with the requirement that a taxicab company must have a minimum of 15 vehicles to operate in the city. He says the Uber model would not be in compliance because the company doesn’t own vehicles. Its drivers use their own vehicles and are treated as independent contractors, not employees.

Adkins says Uber has submitted proposed ordinance changes that would address the situation. He is reviewing those and is also checking with other cities where Uber already operates.

Some City Councilmembers have expressed concern about Uber operating without a franchise agreement because there would be no legal recourse if violations occur.