Medallion holders challenge SFMTA's revocation decisions amid procedural concerns

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) held a public meeting on July 4, 2025, to discuss appeal number 20164 concerning the revocation of George Horbel's taxi medallion. The meeting featured several public comments from individuals advocating for Horbel, emphasizing concerns over the fairness and implications of the SFMTA's decision.

Ronald Walter, a veteran taxi driver, spoke in favor of Horbel, arguing that the punishment for not maintaining a driver's license was disproportionate to the offense. He highlighted that many drivers, including himself, were unaware of the ongoing requirements due to a lack of communication from the SFMTA. Walter noted that the full-time driving requirement was currently suspended due to the pandemic, questioning the rationale behind enforcing the driver's license rule at this time.

Robert Sesana raised concerns about a new rule implemented by the SFMTA that limits the hearing officer's authority, suggesting it undermines the ability to consider special circumstances in cases like Horbel's. He pointed out that the SFMTA had previously established programs to assist disabled drivers, which he felt were not being honored in Horbel's case.

Dennis Corkus, another long-time driver, echoed these sentiments, stating that no medallions had been revoked for not driving in the past and that revoking Horbel's medallion would be unjust, especially given the current lack of options for disabled drivers to sell their medallions.

Charles Rathbone, a fellow medallion holder, criticized the process as unfair, arguing that Horbel had previously won his case before the hearing officer. He claimed that the SFMTA's actions were influenced by external pressures from a credit union, which sought to benefit from the revocation of non-driving medallion holders.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public comment, ensuring that all voices were heard, particularly those who may have faced technical difficulties during the session. The discussions highlighted ongoing tensions between the SFMTA's regulatory actions and the rights of taxi drivers, particularly those affected by age and disability. The outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for the future of medallion holders in San Francisco.