Concerns over the growing issue of shared e-scooters dominated the Bronx Parks & Recreation Committee meeting on December 1, 2024. Community members voiced their frustrations about the reckless parking and safety hazards posed by these scooters, particularly the shared ones that clutter sidewalks and streets.

One resident recounted a near-miss with an e-bike, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability from scooter companies. "The companies are reckless with it because there's no accountability," they stated, calling for more robust regulations to manage the scooters effectively. The discussion highlighted a recent city council proposal to implement license plates on e-scooters, which attendees criticized as ineffective. "License plates don't work for cars. They don't work for curbing that," one speaker argued, stressing that the police lack the resources to enforce such measures.

While some community members acknowledged the benefits of e-scooters for quick transportation, they agreed that the current state of the program is untenable. "It would be a real loss to the community if the program were to end," one participant noted, reflecting a divided sentiment on the issue.

The meeting also touched on the importance of inclusive community discussions, with some members expressing concern over a recent town hall meeting that they felt excluded broader community input. "All voices and all opinions are valid," one speaker asserted, urging the committee to ensure future discussions are open to all community members.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for a balanced approach to e-scooter regulation and community engagement remained clear, with attendees hopeful for constructive changes in the near future.