It’s an unfortunate reflection of the city that ride-sharing has become such a contentious issue.

Ride-sharing companies claim San Antonio’s ordinance is far too restrictive, and they have threatened to leave our market when city regulations take effect March 1. That would certainly be a huge PR blow for a city that likes to claim it’s “on the rise.” In response, a number of City Council members have dug in, essentially daring ride-sharing companies such as Uber to make good on their threats to flee San Antonio.

We had previously endorsed the city’s regulations because we appreciated the emphasis on public safety and had been disheartened by some of Uber’s very public PR failures. But we’re pulling back on that endorsement because of some large issues in the regulations.

Of primary concern to Uber is the seemingly excessive insurance coverage for ride-sharing companies and their drivers. These are coverage levels that far exceed those required of taxis. A second issue that merits review is the amount of data ride-sharing companies will be required to provide to the city. The wording, at present, is way too vague and potentially intrusive to privacy.

We don’t see how these issues, and other points of contention, can be resolved by March 1. It’s also unreasonable to expect the city to repeal its ordinance — presto, magic — at the 11th hour.

Our suggestion, then, is for the city to push back the start date of the ordinance for six months. This would allow for more time to study other ordinances and craft a compromise. One that balances safety and competition, and treats traditional taxis and ride-sharing companies as equally as possible. Delaying six months would also ensure new council members and the next mayor would have ample time to study the issue after the May election.

Other major Texas cities have found ways to accommodate ride-sharing and preserve public safety. It stands to reason San Antonio can, too. City Council should delay these regulations and then find a workable solution that allows ride-sharing to stay in S.A.