Uber Launches Service in Montpelier, Vermont

The ride-hailing service Uber is now operating in Montpelier, Vermont.

The San Francisco-based company says riders requesting a car in Montpelier can be dropped off at points outside the city, including in Barre, Hyde Park, Waitsfield and Charlotte.

Mayor John Hollar says he’s concerned that Uber could have a negative impact on existing taxi companies.

City Clerk John Odum tells Vermont Public Radio that the city will have to change its taxi ordinance, as Uber’s business model “doesn’t fit” into its licensing regulations.

Odum says he’ll talk with other cities about their experiences with Uber.

An Uber spokeswoman declined to speculate on how the company would respond if it was found to be in violation of city ordinances.