Ride-sharing regulations on tonight’s busy council agenda

Regina city council will have lots to consider at tonight’s meeting.

Earlier this month, executive committee had asked staff for more information on regulations for ride-sharing companies, like driver requirements, mandatory cameras and caps on the number of licenses.

Cab companies had been asking that drivers of all vehicles-for-hire be required to have a Class 4 licence, because of its medical requirements. The report says, “While Class 5 licence holders do not need to submit a medical report, Saskatchewan has legislation that requires disclosure to SGI of all medical conditions that could impact driving.”

The city is also recommending additional requirements for Class 5 licence holders, including a driving record that has fewer than 12 demerit points in the last two years and is clear of suspensions in the last 10 years.

On cameras, the report says no other Canadian municipality requires them for ride-sharing vehicles because they double as personal vehicles, and cameras would be an invasion of privacy for drivers.

Further, the report says the installation and maintenance costs would be high for part-time drivers.

Resident Dale Richardson plans to attend tonight’s meeting. He’s organized a large group over Facebook to come with him to voice support for ride-sharing in the city. More than 40 people have said they’ll attend.

“People want reliable car service that comes to you quickly and affordably,” Richardson said. “Every experience that I have had … whether it’s Uber or Lyft, has been very safe.”

Cook Residence

After its owners had applied to demolish it, the Cook Residence could be declared a heritage building.

The home sits at the corner of Albert Street and Hill Avenue and was built in 1929.

Heritage Regina president Jackie Schmidt described it as having Tudor revival architecture with unique features like a crenelated tower, leaded glass windows, a grand staircase and Tyndall Stone construction.

“It has really significant historical and architectural detail,” Schmidt said.

Schmidt also argues the house fits the criteria for a heritage building because of who lived in it — Robert Cook.

Cook was a local entrepreneur and founder of the Regina Brewing Company, which later became Sick’s Brewery and then Molson’s, reads a letter to council.

“(He was) significant in the financial development of the city, he employed lots of people,” Schmidt said.

The owners disagree with the city’s assessment of heritage value and say the building needs $2.5 million in restorations, which wouldn’t be recouped through its resale price.

Free land, lawn parking ban

Meanwhile, council could gift land at 1915 and 1955 Retallack Street to the YWCA for its new Centre for Women and Families, which would include space for gatherings, Indigenous healing, recreation and wrap-around services.

As well, parking on one’s front lawn could result in a $250 fine if council approves changes to the city’s community standards bylaw.

Council will also consider a $150,000 contribution to Evraz Place to host the upcoming NHL Heritage Classic.