Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Noise Ordinance Jake Brake topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council discusses possible ban on engine braking; asks staff for more research
Summary
Council members and residents raised noise and safety concerns about heavy‑vehicle engine braking ("jake brakes"). The council took no action March 6 and asked staff and the city attorney to prepare possible ordinance language and signage options for future consideration.
The Lincoln City Council discussed whether to regulate heavy‑vehicle engine braking (commonly called "jake brakes") during its March 6 meeting but took no formal action.
Mayor Sisolsson introduced the item as a preliminary discussion and said the proposal had been prompted by complaints and recent debate in nearby jurisdictions. A resident who lives near the railroad tracks described frequent engine‑braking noise at speeds common in town and urged the council to consider an all‑hours ban rather than time‑of‑day restrictions.
Council members and the city attorney cautioned that a final ordinance would need careful drafting, including decisions about whether the restriction would apply at all hours or only during certain times, and whether signs would be required. The attorney said the ordinance could require signage and that implementation at city limits or along specific corridors might require coordination with the county.
Councilwoman Bertao and others asked for more time to research enforcement, signage costs and the ordinance’s fit with existing local and county code. The council agreed not to take a first reading or vote at the meeting and directed staff to prepare draft language and cost estimates for a future agenda item if council members request a formal ordinance.
No motion was made and no vote taken. The matter will return for council review only after staff and the attorney supply proposed drafting and implementation options.
