Lincoln City Council passes ordinance targeting dangerous driving and racing

The Lincoln City Council meeting on March 31, 2025, focused on the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at addressing dangerous driving behaviors in the city. The proposed ordinance, introduced by Councilman Beckius, establishes definitions and prohibitions related to racetrack activities and designates certain motor vehicles as public nuisances if they violate city ordinances. Such vehicles may be subject to impoundment.

Council members expressed strong support for the ordinance, emphasizing the need for enhanced public safety. Councilman Beckius highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Lincoln Police Department, neighborhood associations, and community members in crafting the ordinance. He suggested that the council and police department conduct a follow-up review in one year to assess the ordinance's impact on local safety.

Several council members voiced their concerns about the discretion exercised by law enforcement under the new rules. They stressed the importance of balancing enforcement with community education about safe driving practices. Councilman Shobe noted the significant number of dangerous driving violations in the city, citing over 1,000 accidents in a specific area over the past three years. He urged the police department to increase enforcement efforts to address the community's concerns about noise and safety.

Councilman Weber acknowledged the ongoing efforts to find solutions to dangerous driving and reiterated the council's responsibility to prioritize public safety. He emphasized that the ordinance is a starting point for addressing the issue and that monitoring its effectiveness will be crucial.

The meeting also included public comments, with some residents expressing concerns about the broader implications of the ordinance and its potential impact on low-income families. However, the council members maintained that the ordinance is necessary to combat reckless driving behaviors that threaten community safety.

The ordinance was ultimately approved with a unanimous vote of 6-0, marking a significant step towards improving road safety in Lincoln. The council plans to revisit the data and outcomes of the ordinance in the coming year to ensure its effectiveness in reducing dangerous driving incidents.