The Hastings City Council held an extended discussion on proposed regulations for electric scooters, one‑wheel boards and similar motorized personal mobility devices but took no ordinance vote and directed staff to pursue more study and a work session that includes the police department.

The discussion stemmed from a staff draft ordinance presented by Jesse (staff) that sought council feedback on where and how to allow motorized personal devices — on sidewalks, streets, trails, or some combination. Council members raised repeated concerns about speed, age of riders, enforcement practicality and safety for pedestrians.

Key issues raised by council and speakers: Several councilmembers said motorized devices traveling at high speed on streets — including downtown Burlington Street and other arterials — pose a public safety risk, especially when riders are juveniles who may not understand traffic rules. One councilmember proposed treating motorized devices the same as bicycles on streets, which would make existing traffic laws enforceable against riders. Another urged restricting devices from sidewalks in commercial areas or imposing walking‑speed limits when sidewalks must be used.

Enforcement, penalties and due process: Council members questioned the ordinance’s impound and destruction language. One councilmember asked that permanent forfeiture or destruction be subject to a court hearing with notice to owners, noting that devices can be expensive and that low‑income families or youths might be disproportionately affected. Several councilmembers stressed any ordinance should be enforceable by police and asked staff to coordinate with law enforcement to ensure practical, enforceable rules.

Safety equipment and time restrictions: Suggestions included requiring lights or high‑visibility clothing, restricting night‑time operation, requiring devices intended for sidewalks to be limited to walking speeds and explicitly distinguishing motorized from nonmotorized devices.

Next steps: Councilmembers asked staff to schedule a work session that includes police staff and to gather model ordinances from other cities and enforcement feasibility information. Jesse said the draft is intentionally preliminary and asked for council direction; members indicated they wanted to allow safe street use in some lower‑speed areas, limit sidewalk use downtown, and prioritize enforceability.

Ending: No formal vote was taken. Council directed staff to refine the draft, coordinate with police, and return for further discussion in a work session.