Calgarian driving for Uber in Edmonton says $220 fee wouldn't stop him

Uberhas put the brakes on its plans to operate in Calgary,saying new rules passed by city hall are too onerous and expensive for its drivers.

But one Calgarymusician moonlighting as an Uber driverin Edmonton says the city's annual $220 per-driver licensing fee wouldn't stop him.

In fact, after just one night of driving, he said he earned more than enough in fares to cover that fee.

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Since the beginning of February, Luke Thomson has been working as anUberdriver in Alberta's capital, where there is no annual licensing fee.

"So far, it's been working out well for me," Thomson said.

He had his biggest night yet after Saturday's Oilers' game, raking in $240 in fares.

"I don't think you can make a fortune though," he said, notingthe figure doesn't account for fuel costs.

Thomson estimates he could make enough in two average Saturday nights to cover the $220 fee.

"When it all works out, it's a decent wage. I can't see myself getting rich."

Thomson, who still regularly plays in a band in Calgary,said he'd love to see his home city reach an agreement withUber.

"It's a rare opportunity for musicians to be able to just pick up work any time they can. Any time of day."