Vehicle for Hire Licensing Board — Burlington, VT
Date: 2025-07-09
Time: 17:30

Vehicle for Hire Licensing Board

 Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 5:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, City Hall, 149
 Church St.

https://zoom.us/j/93643801654?pwd=tbDeAakUpKyTHxe88mknkt2YS3An4Q.1



1. Agenda
  1.1. Motion to amend/adopt agenda

2. Introductions

3. Public Forum
  3.1. PUBLIC FORUM - Verbal Comments

4. Appeals
  4.1. Luxury Cab (Mohamed Gharib) – Denial of Taxi Business License

5. Deliberative Agenda

6. VFH Memo - TNC Rates
  6.1. TNC Rates Increase

7. Discussion
  7.1. Signage and Enforcement of Meter Rates at the Airport Queue Line


8. New Business

9. Adjournment
  9.1. Motion to adjourn

Vehicle for Hire Licensing Board

 Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 5:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, City Hall, 149
 Church St.

https://zoom.us/j/93643801654?pwd=tbDeAakUpKyTHxe88mknkt2YS3An4Q.1



1. Agenda
  1.1. Motion to amend/adopt agenda

2. Introductions

3. Public Forum
  3.1. PUBLIC FORUM - Verbal Comments

4. Appeals
  4.1. Luxury Cab (Mohamed Gharib) – Denial of Taxi Business License

5. Deliberative Agenda

6. VFH Memo - TNC Rates
  6.1. TNC Rates Increase

7. Discussion
  7.1. Signage and Enforcement of Meter Rates at the Airport Queue Line


8. New Business

9. Adjournment
  9.1. Motion to adjourn




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 Vehicle for Hire Licensing Board
 Administrative Offices
 149 Church Street
06/26/2025 Burlington, VT 05401
 Tel: 802-865-701
 Fax: 802-865-7014
VIA: US CERTIFIED MAIL AND EMAIL

Mohamed A Gharib
DBA:Luxury Cab LLC
61 Hinesburg Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
ameer.gharib1@yahoo.com

 NOTICE OF HEARING

RE: Vehicle for Hire Business License Application for 2025-2026

Dear Mohamed Gharib,

The Vehicle for Hire administration office has received your request dated June 17, 2025 for a
hearing to appeal the decision regarding the denial of your Vehicle for Hire Business License.
The issue will be presented to the Vehicle for Hire Licensing Board on Wednesday, July 9, 2025
at 5:30pm in the Sharon Bushor Conference Room, City Hall,149 Church St., Burlington, VT
05401. You may also join the meeting remotely if you choose:
Join via Zoom, at https://zoom.us/j/93643801654?pwd=tbDeAakUpKyTHxe88mknkt2YS3An4Q.1
Meeting ID: 936 4380 1654


You may have an attorney or other agent speak on your behalf. However, it is not required. If
you have any materials to present in defense of this denial, please submit them to me no later
than Thursday, July 3rd, 2025. You may bring before the joint committee all pertinent facts,
arguments, evidence, and witnesses you believe will have a bearing on these issues involved in
this case. Failure to attend the hearing will result in the board’s decision regarding the
appeal being final. The board will consider rescheduling the hearing in the event that you have
extenuating circumstances only.

All questions, correspondence and documents pertaining to this matter should be directed to the
City of Burlington, Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401.

Tenzin Chokden
City of Burlington
Vehicle for Hire Administration Office
tchokden@burlingtonvt.gov
802-865-7019




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TO: City of Burlington, Vehicle for Hire Board
 City of Burlington, City Council

FROM: Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport
 Nic Longo, Director of Aviation

CC: Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, Mayor
 Katherine Schad, Chief Administrator Officer

DATE: July 9, 2025

SUBJECT: To authorize the City of Burlington and the Patrick Leahy Burlington International
 Airport to increase rates associated with Transportation Network Companies


REQUEST

The City of Burlington and the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (“Leahy BTV”) seeks
approval and authorization to set new rates for all Transportation Network Companies operating within
City limits as well as at the Leahy BTV Airport.


Background
On February 16, 2016, the City Council enacted a new Vehicle for Hire Ordinance (BCO- 30-1) that is
required to determine and recommend a fee to charge for vehicle for hire business licenses for approval
by the city council. The following fees also included a supplemental fee pertaining to each ride
originating or ending within the City of Burlington:
 $.25 per ride supplemental business license fee for each ride originating or ending in the City or
 the Airport
Additionally, it was required for operators to report all ride transactions and associated payments to be
made monthly to the Vehicle for Hire Administrator.

Following the passage of the Ordinance, Memoranda of Understanding were entered with Lyft, Inc.
(hereinafter “Lyft”) and Raiser LLC (hereinafter “Raiser) whom is a subsidiary of Uber Technologies




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(“Uber”). The term of the MOU begins on the date of full execution and was in effect for a period of
one (1) year; and is automatically renewed unless a party sends a written notice of termination to the
other party at least thirty days prior to the end of the current term.

Since 2017, the Airport has had an MOU with Raiser and Lyft whereas $2.00 per pick-up or delivery to
and from the airport would be collected.

Comparison to Portland, ME
Portland, Maine currently charges $0.65 per drop-off and pickup and are in discussions to increase the
fee as well.

Financials

 City Trips Income Airport Trips Income
 FY25* 457,071 $114,267 86,249 $172,498
 FY24 419,963 $100,791 73,383 $146,766
 FY23 331,017 $79,444 59,513 $119,027
 FY22 224,944 $53,987 39,188 $78,376

*April through June 2025 data not yet available. Average of Q1 through Q3 used to forecast Q4. For
the Airport, it was a 17.5% increase. For the City, it was a 4.4% increase.

It is important to note that the Airport, by Federal regulation, must retain all revenues associated with
its operation and must not divert any revenues to City operations per grant assurances and other federal
regulations.
The net increase to the City’s budget will help alleviate any general fund balance concerns.


Recommendation

Below is the recommended new fee structure

 Fee Recommended Current Increase Estimated
 New Price Price Additional
 FY26 Revenue
 Per Ride $0.50 $0.25 $0.25 $114,268
 fee
 (City)
 Per Ride $4.00 $2.00 $2.00 $172,498
 Fee
 (Airport)




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PROPOSED MOTION:

Vehicle for Hire Board:

“To approve and recommend to the City of Burlington City Council to authorize the City of Burlington
staff to raise the Transportation Network Company (TNC) fee to $0.50 for each ride originating and
ending within the City limits and to authorize the Airport to raise the Transportation Network Company
fee to $4.00 for each ride originating and ending at the Airport.”

City Council:

“To authorize the City of Burlington staff to raise the Transportation Network Company (TNC) fee to
$0.50 for each ride originating and ending within the City limits and to authorize the Airport to raise the
Transportation Network Company fee to $4.00 for each ride originating and ending at the Airport.”




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BURLINGTON VEHICLE FOR HIRE LICENSING BOARD
 SHARON BUSHOR CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, 149 CHURCH ST.
 MINUTES OF MEETING - DRAFT
 July 9, 2025
 Members present: Paul Hines (Chair)
 Dave Hartnett
 Stephen Hamlin
 Also present: Emmett Wood (Attorney) Remotely
 Tenzin Chokden
 Nicolas Longo
 Romeo Hermann


Meeting start time: 5:35PM

1. Agenda
1. Agenda

1.1. Motion to amend/adopt agenda
Motion to approve was made by Stephen Hamlin and seconded by Dave Hartnett. The motion passed
unanimously.

2. Introductions
All members introduced themselves and Dave Hartnett joined as newest member serving on the
board.

3. Public Forum
3. Public Forum


Katie Franger, Public Affairs Manager for Rasier, LLC (Uber), stated that as of July 1, 2025, a significant
change in Vermont law (Title 23, Section 754, Subsection B) repealed Burlington's authority to
regulate transportation network companies like Uber. This change means state law now preempts the
city's ability to regulate rideshare services.

Regarding the proposed fee increase from 25 cents per ride, Uber argues that the current fee already
covers administrative and enforcement costs of the vehicle-for-hire ordinance. They believe the
proposed increase is not about covering these direct costs but is intended to address a city budget
shortfall, essentially acting as a general revenue tax rather than a regulatory fee.
For airport pickup and drop-off fees, Uber states that any changes would require an amendment to
their existing operating agreement with the city, and they are open to discussing these terms,
especially since the agreement is nine years old.



Finally, Uber emphasizes the negative impact any fee increase would have on Burlington residents,
consumers, and drivers. They argue that rising transportation costs add an unnecessary burden,
potentially reducing accessibility for riders and diminishing income opportunities for drivers. Uber
states their commitment to providing affordable transportation and flexible income opportunities
while complying with all Vermont state laws. They are eager to maintain open dialogue and
collaborate with the city and legislature to find a path forward.



4. Appeals

4.1. Luxury Cab (Mohamed Gharib) – Denial of Taxi Business License

Mohamed Gharib, owner of Luxury Cab, was sworn in by Tenzin Chokden. He was accompanied by his
wife and advocate, Dr. Leyha Callendar Gharib.

Paul Hines then requested the taxi administrator explain the denial for the appeal before hearing
from Mr. Gharib.


Tenzin Chokden stated that during the background check for Mr. Mohamed Gharib's business license
renewal application, a 2024 conviction for simple assault was identified. This conviction prevents the
issuance of a taxi business license, as Section 30-11, Subsection 5(b) of the vehicle for hire ordinance
prohibits licenses for applicants with offense involving threats, physical violence, or weapon use
within the last seven years. This is the basis for the business license denial.


Mohamed Gharib expressed shock and frustration that his past record, specifically a simple assault
conviction, is impacting his business license renewal, stating this has never happened to him before.
He explained that he moved from Washington D.C. five years ago to Burlington, believing it was a
good opportunity for his career, which includes a background in a "Denmark championship" and
receiving a "big raise."

He believes a customer complaint unfairly affected his career and reputation, despite his good
behavior and skills. He stated that his lawyer and wife advised him not to go to trial due to concerns
about his background and religion as an outsider, leading him to accept two years of probation. This
simple assault is the only "issue" he's ever had.

Because of this incident, he changed his career path a year ago, starting his own taxi business. He
emphasized that this issue is now affecting his life and his ability to make an income, especially since
he recently bought a house and needs to support his family. He reiterated that the simple assault
conviction is the reason for his current license renewal struggles.

Dr. Leyha Callendar Gharib, Mohamed Gharib's wife, explained that she is appearing to advocate for
her husband. She highlighted their family's significant commitment to Vermont, despite the cold, due
to her husband's passion for his work.

She strongly argued that the simple assault conviction that is denying her husband's taxi license was a
result of profiling and a fabricated allegation. She stated that she and their lawyer advised her
husband to accept a plea of no contest rather than go to trial, due to concerns about diversity and
inclusion in the legal system, especially given his background as a Muslim Arab man. She noted that
even the State attorney found the allegations illogical, leading to the plea offer.

Dr. Gharib emphasized her husband's unblemished 17-year record as a top massage therapist and his
love for Vermont despite the alleged injustice. She mentioned that her own similar, but more severe,
legal situation was successfully won due to her uncle, a Boston attorney, and the fabricated nature of
the allegations.

She is advocating for the reinstatement of her husband's business license, arguing that he did not
assault or harm anyone and that the current appeal process is a way to ensure fairness. She cited
support letters from the owner of Burlington, civil rights organizations, the ministry, and numerous
customer reviews praising his professionalism and trustworthiness. She concluded by stating that this
"unjust" and "defrauding" situation, which has significantly impacted their family and finances
(including 18 months of expensive living in Vermont), needs to be resolved. She hopes his license will
be reinstated so he can continue his passion for service as a business owner, equipped with cameras
for safety and transparency.

Mohamed Gharib stated that he carries commercial insurance for his vehicle and recently purchased a
new van capable of accommodating up to seven passengers.

Stephen Hamlin asked if the simple assault conviction was also preventing Mohamed Gharib from
pursuing his massage career, and then inquired about the details of what happened.

Mohamed Gharib explained that a customer received a massage, paid, and left. However, she later
called the owner to complain and demand a refund, subsequently escalating the situation by
contacting the police. He was particularly confused by her actions, questioning why she would pay for
the service if she intended to complain afterwards.

Dr. Leyha Callendar Gharib recounted the customer's accusation of sexual assault against Mohamed
Gharib, alleging anal contact. She found the claim impossible, as Mohamed was seated in front while
the customer was lying on the massage chair.
Dave Hartnett clarified that the Board's role is not to retry the specifics of Mohamed Gharib's case,
acknowledging that such matters are "above our pay grade." He stated that he respects this
limitation. Instead, he wants the city to clarify the Board's jurisdiction and authority in the matter.

Dr. Leyha Callendar Gharib clarified that they are not seeking expungement of her husband's record,
as that is a separate legal process. Their purpose for the appeal is solely to have Mohamed Gharib's
business license reinstated because the conviction appeared in his background check, and an appeal is
the appropriate process for addressing such licensing issues.

Paul Hines sought clarification on the Board's specific role in determining the appeal. He asked
whether their task was to assess if the city adhered to the ordinance, or if Mohamed Gharib's case
warranted a deviation from it, essentially questioning what exactly they needed to decide.

Emmett Wood clarified that the Board's role is to determine if the ordinance was followed in rejecting
the license application.

Dr. Leyha Callendar Gharib contended that Mohamed's 2024 conviction was a misdemeanor, not a
felony.

Tenzin Chokden countered that even as a misdemeanor, the simple assault conviction still disqualifies
him from obtaining his license under VFH ordinance Section 30-11, Subsection 5(d).

Paul Hines asked for clarification on how a "no contest" plea is treated under the "any offense" clause
in this context?

Emmett responded that a "no contest" plea is indeed a conviction, carrying the same weight as any
other.




5. Deliberative Agenda
Delibrative session entered at 06:20PM and ended at 06:24PM

6. VFH Memo - TNC Rates
6. VFH Memo - TNC Rates


Nic Longo, the director of Burlington Airport spoke on behalf of both the Burlington Airport and the
City of Burlington, the presenter outlined proposed fee increases for transportation network
companies, Uber and Lyft.



City of Burlington Fee Increase
  Current Fee: 25 cents per ride, charged if a trip starts or ends within city limits. This generates
 about $100,000 annually for the city's general fund.
  Rationale: Existing fees haven't changed since 2016-2017 (almost a decade), while
 administrative and service provision costs have increased.
  Proposal: Double the city fee to 50 cents per drop-off, which would double the current
 revenue stream.



Airport Fee Increase

  Current Fee: $2 per pick-up/drop-off, unchanged since a 2006 Memorandum of
 Understanding (MOU).
  Proposal: Double the airport fee to $4 per pick-up/drop-off.



Justification and Next Steps

Both proposed rates are considered "market factor rates" and are even lower than those in
comparable cities like Portland, Maine (currently raising rates from 65 cents to over a dollar) and
Boston (discussing substantial, double-digit increases). The goal is to align with market values and
account for a decade of inflation (CPI adjustment) to increase revenue for both the city and the
airport. These proposed increases are specific to TNC operators. If approved by the Board and City
Council, new MOUs would be negotiated with Uber and Lyft.

Paul Hines brought up concerns was that shared by Uber representative letter, whether the rate
increase was state jurisdiction or city jurisdiction.

Nic Longo said during city discussions involving Tenzin, Sarah, Emma, and the City Attorney's office, no
concerns were raised regarding the proposed rate increases. The conversations focused solely on City
Ordinance Schedule 1, which provides the justification for these rates.

Emmett Wood stated that Vehicle for Hire Ordinance Section 30-6, Schedule I, outlines the Board's
authority to determine these rates. They clarified that the state statute, as they recalled, specifically
allows large municipalities like Burlington to establish their own rates for Transportation Network
Companies (TNCs).

Diego Diaz from the Uber team clarified that the statute in 23 V.S.A. Section 754, Subsection B, which
was set to be repealed or "sunset" on July 1, 2025. He highlighted that the law specifically stated that
municipal regulations inconsistent with the state chapter are preempted, except for municipalities
with a population over 35,000 (like Burlington). However, the key language explicitly stated, "This
subsection shall be repealed on July 1, 2025." This repeal, as mentioned by his colleague Katie
Franger, was the reason Uber brought their letter to the Vehicle for Hire Board.
Nic Longo stated the presentation's purpose was to secure approval for the rate increase memo,
allowing it to proceed to the City Council for passage. Nic Longo, Emmett Wood, and Tenzin Chokden
were unaware of the letter sent by Rasier, LLC.

Dave Hartnett said he’s comfortable moving this forward to the Council, hoping that the City
Attorney's office, with due preparation (and no fault of theirs tonight), will provide a clearer opinion
before going to the city council.

Dave Hartnett proposed a motion to advance the VFH memo to the City Council, contingent upon
further research to determine whether it falls under city or state jurisdiction. The motion was
seconded by Stephen Hamlin and unanimously approved.



7. Discussion

7.1. Signage and Enforcement of Meter Rates at the Airport Queue Line


Paul Hines suggested improving taxi signage at the airport, specifically at the customer exit leading to
the taxi queue. He noted incidents where drivers attempted to negotiate fares instead of using meters
for trips under 50 miles. He requested the airport include information about meter requirements for
trips under 50 miles and provide an email or QR code for customer complaints.

Nic Longo appreciated the feedback and committed to following up on Hines' requests for improved
signage. He added that enforcing meter use at the airport taxi queue will become easier once the
vehicle-for-hire transition occurs, as the airport will resume responsibility for issuing licenses.

Paul Hines noted a significant decrease in complaints.

8. New Business
Tenzin Chokden explained that a vehicle for hire transition is underway. Under this new structure, the
airport will become responsible for the entire licensing process, including accepting applications and
issuing both vehicle for hire and individual taxi driver licenses. The C/T office, however, will retain
administrative duties such as receiving complaints, managing meeting agendas and minutes,
scheduling hearings, and sending out hearing notifications.


Nic Longo shared information tweaking the queue permits, because the airport commission recently
raised the number of queue permits from 50to 90 and they have only 60 permits. He was thinking
about splitting airport queue permit for ride-share services by time of day rather than selling single,
full-day licenses.

The primary problem this aims to solve is the shortage of drivers during late-night and early-morning
hours (e.g., 11 PM - 1 AM), which generates significant complaints. The idea is to incentivize more
drivers during these peak demand times. For example, they suggested selling 30 licenses for daytime
hours (e.g., 7 AM to noon) and another 30 for evening/night hours (e.g., noon to midnight), ensuring a
guaranteed number of drivers during specific shifts and preventing them from operating outside their
licensed hours. He proposed revisiting the Board later this year to present a formal outline or mock-up
of their concept for discussion.

Paul Hines stated that raising fees for drivers without also increasing their rates could be unfair. He
recommended monitoring this issue for future discussion.

Nic Longo inquired whether the new fee adjustment is an annual adjustment or if it requires board
approval.

Paul Hines replied that there isn't an annual review trigger for the fee adjustment, and it's been about
a year since the last change. Therefore, it's likely time to re-evaluate it.

9. Adjournment
9. Adjournment

Stephen Hamlin moved to adjourn the meeting, and Dave Hartnett seconded the motion. The motion
passed unanimously.
Meeting ended at 07:02PM