Commission adopts updated traffic, public‑offense codes; police urge education on motorized scooters

The El Dorado City Commission approved ordinances adopting updated standard traffic and uniform public‑offense codes for Kansas cities that incorporate recent statutory changes and add local language, including provisions addressing worksite utility vehicles, moving over for stationary vehicles displaying hazard lights and trespassing on critical infrastructure facilities.

Seth, the chief (presenting), summarized key changes: clarifying references to "worksite utility vehicles," creating a 60‑day period for some violators to apply for a restricted driver’s license before suspensions for failure‑to‑comply citations are imposed, and adding a duty to slow and move over for stationary vehicles displaying hazard or caution lights (expanding protection beyond emergency vehicles to disabled vehicles).

On the public‑offense code, the chief said the new language identifies critical infrastructure facilities—refineries, electrical substations and similar facilities—and makes trespass on those sites a misdemeanor under the adopted code; the chief confirmed the local water plant qualifies as critical infrastructure. The commission voted to adopt the ordinances.

Commissioners also raised concerns about motorized scooters in downtown areas. One commissioner asked whether existing ordinances address nonmotorized scooters; the chief responded that there is currently no city ordinance prohibiting motorized scooters on sidewalks and that recent complaints have increased, particularly downtown. The chief said his office intends to partner with parents on education and review options but did not propose a new ordinance during the meeting.

The ordinances were adopted by motion and vote; staff presented the changes and commissioners approved them without amendment.