§ 98-38. Investigation, inquiry and inspection.

(a)

Upon receipt of an application for a permit, customer service will make or cause to be made such investigations as may be considered necessary or advisable for the purpose of determining whether or not the public convenience and necessity require the operation of such vehicles for hire upon the city-parish streets, and whether the applicant is fit and proper to conduct such business. In determining whether a permit should be issued, customer service shall give appropriate weight and due regard, among other things, to the following:

(1)

Probable permanence and quality of the service to be offered by the applicant.

(2)

The past experience of the applicant in rendering such service.

(3)

The past experience of the applicant in prompt adjustment of claims and in payment of judgments, if any, for damages resulting from the negligent operation of any vehicle for hire.

(4)

The financial ability of the applicant to pay any claim or judgment for damages resulting from the negligent operation of a vehicle for hire.

(5)

The stability of the business organization of the applicant, the ability of the central office of the applicant to provide satisfactory and responsible service on a business-like basis, and the ability of the applicant to meet all requirements of customer service.

(6)

The character and condition of the vehicle(s) to be used by the applicant. Customer service and public works will be entitled to make any and all necessary examinations of the vehicle(s) for hire named in the application.

(7)

The evidence in any investigation, inquiry and/or hearing made by customer service shall be utilized in the application process. Customer service may require the production of any and all necessary witnesses, papers, books and/or documents as may be pertinent to such investigation, and every finding, opinion and order made by customer service, pursuant to such investigation, inquiry and/or hearing, shall be utilized by customer service in any determination as to the granting of any permit as well as to the suspension or revocation of any permit once any such application for a permit is granted.

(b)

The vehicle for hire shall be inspected by public works and the vehicle must meet all requirements set forth in this article to pass the inspection. This initial inspection is required regardless of the age of the vehicle.

(Ord. No. O-179-2015, § 3, 8-18-15)