Committee forwards ATV UTV route ordinance to county board despite mixed opinions

Adams County's Highway Committee has taken a significant step towards expanding ATV and UTV access on county roads, following a meeting on April 11, 2025. The committee reviewed a new ordinance that has garnered substantial public support, evidenced by 851 signatures from residents, homeowners, and landowners advocating for the initiative.

The committee's discussions highlighted the importance of allowing the full county board to make the final decision on this matter, rather than leaving it to a small committee. Members expressed their belief that such a decision should reflect the broader community's interests, as indicated by the recent nonbinding referendum where 17 towns participated, revealing mixed sentiments about ATV and UTV usage.

During the meeting, committee members voiced their support for forwarding the ordinance to the county board, with some expressing reservations about their personal votes on the matter. The committee ultimately voted to send the ordinance to the county board for further consideration, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of community opinions.

In addition to the ordinance discussion, the committee addressed logistics for the upcoming Summer Highway Conference scheduled for June at Chula Vista Resort. Members discussed registration deadlines and the approval process for attendance, ensuring that all interested parties are informed about the necessary arrangements.

As the county board prepares to review the ordinance, the outcome will have lasting implications for local residents and the management of recreational vehicle access on county roads. The committee's actions reflect a commitment to engaging with community voices and addressing their needs in transportation and recreation.