St. Augustine City Council Considers E-Bike Safety Resolution and Historic Proclamations

During the recent St. Augustine City Commission meeting, a significant focus was placed on the rising issue of e-bike safety. Public speaker Vijay Kaleida highlighted that five tickets were issued for e-bike violations over the summer months, prompting a call for the city to adopt a resolution promoting safe e-bike usage. This initiative follows a resolution created by the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners aimed at enhancing safety on local streets.

Kaleida also raised concerns about gentrification in the Lincolnville area, referencing recent property purchases totaling nearly $2.9 million. He urged city officials to address the implications of such developments on the community. Additionally, he pointed out that a city staff member has been operating without a business license, suggesting that lax enforcement of city ordinances undermines the rule of law and affects residents' quality of life.

In a positive note, Kaleida celebrated the relocation of a civil rights plaque to a more visible location, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the town's history.

The meeting also included a consent agenda that featured upcoming budget workshops and proclamations, including one recognizing September 16, 2025, as the 460th anniversary of Florida's militia muster. The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, setting the stage for future discussions on budgetary matters and community initiatives.