They've followed the proper channels, proven their companies are insured and gotten the proper licenses.

Now all Tom Clerico and Sam DeGennaro want is a level playing field.

Clerico and DeGennaro - who own AA-1 Taxi and All-Pro Taxi - the only cab companies currently permitted to operate in Berkeley, said they are frustrated by the way unlicensed companies are operating in Berkeley without penalty.

"They're coming in and out of here and nothing is being done about it," Clerico, who employs six drivers, told the Township Council recently.

DeGennaro, who operates his service with his wife, noted one company advertises prominently in a local newspaper, promoting its service as having the lowest rates around.

"Of course they can charge lower rates," he said. "They haven't paid all the fees we have."

Under an ordinance the council adopted last week, however, companies that lack permits will face fines of up to $2,000 if they try to do business in the township.

Clerico and DeGennaro initially came to the council meeting to question the ordinance - which was on the agenda for its second reading and adoption - and was told the primary changes were to increase the number of permits and an increase in the fee paid per driver, from $10 to $25.

Denis P. Kelly, from the law firm of Gilmore & Monahan, the township's attorney, told Clerico the other important change is the new ordinance sets out penalties for failing to have a permit to operate -- something the previous ordinance lacked.

Clerico said he and DeGennaro have complained repeatedly to the Berkeley police department about the unlicensed companies.

"We've given them the names and phone numbers of companies doing business illegally," he said. "Just tell them they can't be here."

Councilman Thomas Grosse said the lack of a penalty made it impossible for the police to do anything, and that it was Police Chief Karin DiMichele who approached the council for assistance on the issue.

The ordinance sets out a number of conditions needed to receive a license to operate a taxi service in Berkeley, including a requirement that all drivers submit to a criminal background check and prove they have current insurance.

"You have to submit yourself to a lot of scrutiny," Clerico said, adding they just want everyone to be held to the same standard.