Dear Editor, On May 7, a majority of the voters of Austin voted no on a proposition regarding the need for enhanced security checks for Uber and Lyft drivers. As a result, Uber and Lyft will leave the Austin market. That will not only destroy a source of income for Uber and Lyft drivers, but will seriously harm those of us who have come to rely on Uber and Lyft for safe and efficient transportation. This election was the end result of unnecessary action by the Austin City Council. The same people who seem never opposed to real estate developments, and cannot even keep Austin streets satisfactorily maintained. Yes Uber and Lyft are large capitalist corporations. But that is not a reason to prevent them from providing a useful service to Austin residents. Possibly as a result of this victory the City Council will gain the courage to face down the well-funded real estate lobby? I suggest not holding your breath waiting for that to happen.