An online petition directed at Mayor Adrian Fenty (D) in protest of new cab fares gathered 285 signatures as of Friday afternoon.

The petition objects to the $4 drop rate, the initial fee that D.C. taxis will charge before the meter begins to run once they abandon the current zone system. D.C. cabs are scheduled to switch to meters at some point next year.

“We are already being denied the right to vote for Congressional representation, so please don’t deny us the right to a fair drop rate,” the petition reads. It also says Atlanta and New York only charge $2.50 drop rates.

The piece goes on to argue that the higher rate will hurt taxi drivers because fewer people will be willing to ride for such a price. It is unclear where the movement originated.

A spokeswoman in the mayor’s office explained the rationale behind the drop rate.

“Four dollars was chosen because we were looking to closely reflect the current cost of the taxi ride and just change the method that calculated it,” said Dena Iverson, communication specialist to the mayor.

The meter plan is currently open for a 60-day public comment period that will end on Jan. 6.

Wells Honors Contributions to Community

D.C. City Councilmember Tommy Wells will hold his first Livable, Walkable Community Awards ceremony on Wednesday.

The Ward 6 Democrat received more than 60 nominations for the four awards, which will go to a neighbor, civic organization, business and public servant.

For a suggested $10 donation to the Ward 6 Constituent Services Fund, which Wells’ office uses to help residents in need, attendees will enjoy food and drink from Eastern Market vendors and nearby restaurants, entertainment from a blues band, jazz guitarist and children’s orchestra, and the ceremony itself. There also will be a cash bar.

The event is 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the market’s “East Hall.”

— Alison McSherry and Daniel Heim