Accessible transportation programs in Kingston continue following significant changes to local Taxi Commission

At their meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 18, Kingston City councillors replaced members of the Kingston Area Taxi Licensing Commission (KATLC) following ongoing concerns with operations and oversight of taxi services in the city and Loyalist Township. 
 
The move comes after recent operational and financial assessments revealed the need to adjust the governance framework of the Commission ahead of its transition to the City.  

In August 2025, Kingston City Council voted to dissolve the KATLC and assume responsibility for taxi regulation services effective September 2026. At that time, Council directed staff to develop a new subsidized Accessible Taxi Program (ATP) and report back to Council before the end of 2025, to ensure the program remains available as part of the City’s commitment to accessible transportation. 

However, following an increasing lack of response from the Commission and information about an existing deficit with the ATP, Council advanced the issue to their most recent meeting. This was to ensure service continuity for residents, support local operators and drivers whose livelihoods depend on the industry, and allow taxi companies to maintain stable businesses. 

Kingston residents who rely on accessible transportation continue to have options, as the City works to maintain the subsidized Accessible Taxi Program (ATP) in a way that meets community needs while remaining financially sustainable.  

The current ATP model, which charges riders a fare equivalent to Kingston Transit’s adult single fare of $3.50 and subsidizes the remaining amount, could result in annual costs exceeding $830,000 if it remains unchanged.  

Continuing the program in its current form would require significant property tax support, in addition to the funding of the Kingston Access Bus (KAB) service, which is why changes are needed. 

As affirmed by Council in its Nov. 18, 2025, meeting, the ATP continues through Modern City Taxi, with the subsidized fare of $3.50 for qualified riders remaining. Eligibility for the program will be assessed through KAB. Individuals interested in the ATP should contact KAB to register as eligibility cards issued by the Taxi Commission will not be valid starting Jan. 1, 2026.  

Accessible taxi service in Kingston is intended as an enhancement to public transit and Kingston Access Bus, not a replacement. The City recognizes the value of providing flexibility for trips that cannot be easily pre-planned by offering subsidized taxi services.  

To balance need with overall costs and impact to property taxes, the City will limit the number of subsidized trips, while all additional accessible taxi rides will continue to be available at full fare. Qualified residents are encouraged to reserve their accessible taxi ride early, as availability of subsidized rides is limited. Both local taxi companies, Modern City Taxi and Amey’s Taxi, have accessible taxis in their fleet available for regular bookings.  

Kingston Transit buses remain accessible, and KAB services meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) requirements. Using the Access Bus as the primary option for most trips leaves accessible taxis available in cases where the bus may not be suitable. 

KAB is also proposing service expansion in 2026, including approximately 4,800 additional service hours, which will increase the average vehicles available during weekday peak times, pending approval of the 2026 budget.  

These improvements, combined with a financially sustainable ATP, will help ensure residents have access to transportation options that meet their needs while responsibly stewarding public resources.