Green light for taxi rate hike

Calgary city council gave final approval Monday to an increase in taxi fares, the first hike in three years.

Taxi drivers in the city asked for a basic fare increase of 12 per cent, which comes out to $2.40 on a $20 fare.

The drivers cited the soaring cost of fuel as the main justification for the request.

The increase is expected to be on taxi meters by June 27, in time for the Calgary Stampede.