It turns out Liberty Cab will be providing service to customers on New Year's Eve after all. The cab company was expected to boycott one of the biggest party nights of the year to protest what its management sees as the "unfair competition" from ride-hailing services as Uber and Lyft.
But after sending conflicting signals Friday, Liberty Cab President Bill Yuhnke released a statement saying he was calling off the protest. Earlier in the day, Mayor Byron Brown said the city is willing to meet with taxi companies to discuss their ongoing concerns.
"We are always willing to meet, always willing to talk," said Brown. "But it is important to note that ride hailing is here based on state legislation, not local legislation."
Liberty Cab argued the ride-hailing companies are able to increase their rates during times of high demand while traditional taxis must stay with their posted rates.
But Uber is offering $15 off a ride for new users attending the ball drop who obtain a special promo code New Year's Eve.