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City officials predict a price war and increased competition will hit the taxi industry if a new set of Uber-friendly bylaw amendments are adopted, and not just because of the new international player.

A new deregulated fare structure proposed by city staff Thursday would let any company — taxi broker or Uber — charge any price they like for a pre-arranged fare as long as a customer agrees to it in advance. Anyone getting a cab at a taxi stand would have the same metered rate, but customers who call for a pickup can price-shop between companies.

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That could mean discounts and loyalty programs for frequent users. It could also mean surcharges for busy nights, no matter which company the customer picks.

“We’re going to see more competition. That will be a result,” said Peter Ohm, acting branch manager overseeing the bylaw. “If you don’t like the rate being offered by one dispatcher, you can call another.”

“Only the cab industry is allowed to take street hails and pick up at taxi stands,” Ohm added.

His office is asking council to delay implementing the bylaw until June 1, if it passes, so they can mount an education campaign to prepare Edmontonians.

“This is a good balance to ease the pain (of taxi plate owners),” said Coun. Andrew Knack, saying change is coming regardless. “It lets the taxi industry compete against Uber, which is something they’ve been very clear on. … Offering flexible fare prices might offer them the opportunity to expand their market.”

Uber quickly came out in favour of the new proposals, amendments to a bylaw that passed first reading Nov. 17and goes to council for debate Tuesday. The California-based company uses an app to let drivers use their own vehicles to offer rides to passengers.

In a written statement, spokesman Xavier Van Chau called it “good news for Edmontonians.”