Uber says council's new bylaw prevents the return of ridesharing in Calgary

City council met Monday afternoon and approved the amended bylaw that will allow for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) or ridesharing companies, like Uber and Lyft, to legally operate in Calgary, according to a City of Calgary release.

Uber has decided that the City of Calgary’s new bylaw is “unworkable” for their company’s business model.

Taking to Twitter Uber writes:

(1/2) It’s unfortunate to see #yyccc vote for regulations that prevent the return of ridesharing to Calgary.

— Uber Calgary (@Uber_Calgary) February 22, 2016

(2/2) We’ll continue to advocate for solutions that create jobs for drivers & affordable transportation options for the public. #YYC4UBER — Uber Calgary (@Uber_Calgary) February 22, 2016

Uber had threatened before Monday’s council meeting that they would not operate in Calgary if the amended bylaw was passed.

The new bylaw is set to take place on April 4, 2016.

“I have always supported the modernization and improvement to Calgary’s taxi system,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi on the City of Calgary site. “I am very pleased with Council’s decision because we will soon be able to provide citizens with more transportation options. This decision delivers on our commitment to better serve our citizens.”

In the release the city states that, once the bylaw is in effect, TNC drivers can operate in Calgary if they have:

An annual operating licence from The City of Calgary.
Valid Class 4 driver’s licence.
Annual Calgary Police Service (CPS) background check.
Proof of valid commercial insurance as required by the Government of Alberta.
Proof of eligibility to work in Canada.
Proof of provincially-approved 134-point mechanical inspection, conducted annually or every 50,000 km whatever comes first.