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Commission told police hope to include CEC on model ordinance for e-bikes and e-scooters
Summary
Staff reported a recent meeting with the Liberty Lake Police Department about drafting a model ordinance to regulate electric bikes and scooters; commissioners and residents reported safety concerns and supported using the commission for outreach and education.
City staff reported on Oct. 15 that the Liberty Lake Police Department (LOPD) plans to involve the Community Engagement Commission as part of a decision‑engagement team to help develop a model ordinance addressing electric bikes and scooters.
During city-hall updates, a staff member said an Oct. 7 meeting with LOPD discussed plans to include the commission in drafting a combined ordinance for e-bikes, e-scooters and related small electric vehicles. Commissioners and residents described frequent near-misses and unsafe operation, particularly involving children riding scooters without helmets and ignoring stop signs.
Commission members and community volunteers said the issue surfaced repeatedly during the recent farmers market and that residents described incidents of riders passing cars or riding on sidewalks and crossing without looking. Several commissioners suggested the spring as an appropriate time to roll out any new education or enforcement campaign and recommended coordinating with parents and HOAs to raise awareness.
A commissioner noted the police chief recently gave an overview to city council about e-bikes and e-scooters; staff said the chief and city staff plan to provide material for a planned commission podcast episode to explain rules and safety guidance.
No ordinance text or enforcement plan was adopted at the meeting. Staff said the commission would be asked to compile community feedback and suggested outreach strategies that could accompany any ordinance drafting and police enforcement.
