Council adopts first reading of ordinance banning motorized watercraft on Boise River
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Summary
Garden City completed the first reading, by title only, of Ordinance 10‑58‑25 to prohibit motorized watercraft on the Boise River. The ordinance aligns Garden City with neighboring jurisdictions; staff recommended three readings and a uniform infraction fine consistent with regional practice.
Garden City’s City Council conducted a first reading by title only of Ordinance 10‑58‑25 on Oct. 13, a proposed code change that would prohibit motorized watercraft on the Boise River within city limits.
Staff and legal advisors told the council the draft ordinance mirrors language used by neighboring jurisdictions and is intended to reduce conflicts between floaters and motorized craft. Police department staff presented the memorandum included in the council packet and said violations are drafted as infractions with a fixed fine; options under state law allow infractions of up to $300 plus court costs but staff recommended a $100 plus court cost penalty to match local practice on related codes. The presenter described coordination with Boise and Ada County legal advisors to achieve a unified approach.
Council approved the first reading by roll call with all members voting yes. Staff recommended three readings and no emergency adoption; the ordinance will return for required subsequent readings before final adoption. The council discussed timing and consistency with adjacent jurisdictions so that enforcement and fines are uniform along the river.