Portsmouth residents will have a chance to weigh in on how the city should address Airbnb, Uber, and other online “sharing” services at a pair of upcoming public forums.
On Wednesday, Jan. 14, the city’s taxi commission will host a public forum on whether Uber and other ride-sharing services should be regulated like traditional taxis. In December, city attorney Robert Sullivan said Uber meets the city’s definition of a taxi service and should be regulated as such; however Portsmouth Police Department officials said officers will hold off issuing summons.
Meanwhile, on Feb. 9, the city council will host a public work session on how and where residents can rent out homes and apartments through sites like Airbnb. On Jan. 5, councilors Jim Splaine and Christine Dwyer submitted memos asking the council to look at the issue.
“The question is how to not overregulate, but at the same time, protect neighborhoods and neighbors,” Splaine said in an interview.
Details about the meetings can be found at cityofportsmouth.com. — Larry Clow