Vern’s Taxi has new owner

Marc Gardela, with manager Edie Titus, is the new owner of Vern’s Taxi Service, the now 14-vehicle fleet started by Vern English 16 years ago with $500 and one car.

The Sonoma Valley High grads were sweethearts as teens, went there separate ways, then reconnected several years ago. Titus befriended English while working for him as driver and dispatcher. When he floated the idea of selling – Titus she passed the news on Gardela, who closed the deal in April. “I was ready to make a change,” he said. “It’s a good investment.”

Though English has had health concerns, Titus said, “he’s still around, still a big part of the business,” imparting advice and even pulling shifts as dispatcher.

“It’s a locally-known business,” Titus said. “We want to keep up that hometown tradition.” Now with 20 drivers on the roster, Vern’s continues to offer a senior discount and “free ride Wednesday,” where the rider earns a voucher for a future ride of equivalent value. They book appointments – shopping and doctor visits are common – deliver goods and packages, and even take kids to school. All the interaction, Gardela said, makes for a fascinating workday. “You meet a lot of great people and hear a lot of great stories.” 707.938.8885.