City leaders, police detail enforcement steps and possible ordinance changes for e‑motorcycles

Rob Wotton, chair of the Public Safety Committee, opened public comment on concerns about electric motorcycles and scooters, and several residents described repeated unsafe riding in neighborhoods and parks. “They were operating on the sidewalk,” resident David Fleming said, recounting calls he made to police after seeing riders perform wheelies near common areas. Fleming added that officers “responded very amazingly quickly.”

Police Chief Mike Bailey told the committee that many devices residents call “e‑motorcycles” are legally motor vehicles under state law and are not the same as pedal‑assist e‑bikes. “If it doesn't have pedals, it's a motorcycle,” Chief Bailey said. He explained that, under the Revised Code of Washington, operators of those devices generally must be at least 16, have a driver’s license and a motorcycle endorsement, and the vehicles must be registered and display a VIN and license plate.

Bailey described operational steps the department is already taking: impounding high‑powered bikes, contacting parents, and filing cases with the King County prosecutor’s office. “We are impounding the bikes, calling the parents,” he said. He said impound fees average about $350 to retrieve a vehicle. Bailey said prosecutors are reviewing juvenile diversion and other options for cases involving minors.

The chief asked the committee for direction on whether the city should adopt a local ordinance that would set lower wattage thresholds or otherwise restrict certain devices beyond state law. “One thing we should consider … is do we go lower than 750 watts in an ordinance so that we’re addressing those that are 250, 500 watts,” he said, noting enforcement nuance and discretionary judgment officers must use when juveniles are involved.

Council members and residents urged robust enforcement and education. Council Member Christensen said she favored aggressive enforcement for repeat offenders and suggested impoundment and community service requirements for returns. Council Member Cotton asked whether education programs exist; Bailey said no coordinated regional school‑age courses were known but that staff would continue to consult the prosecutor’s office and other agencies.

Residents described recurring problems in specific areas — sidewalks, park paths and near the soccer fields — and praised prompt police responses when calls were made. “They're being pretty wild,” Fleming said of some riders. Other residents asked for signage and park restrictions; Bailey said “no e‑motorcycle” signs had been posted on Center as a test and that officers had observed a reduction in activity there.

The committee did not adopt new legislation at the meeting. Discussion produced the direction that police will continue enforcement, impoundment when appropriate, and coordination with the King County prosecutor’s office; staff will report back if a draft ordinance or formal proposal is developed.

Ending: The city encouraged residents to report risky behavior so officers can respond and build case records; police said they will continue impoundments and referrals while the city considers whether to pursue local code changes.