TMAC reviews council email on micromobility; emphasizes enforcement and education over new rules

An email from Councilwoman McKay asking for stronger regulation of scooters, e-bikes and other micromobility devices prompted an extensive TMAC discussion on Oct. 23 about policy options, enforcement and public education.

McKay's message (read into the record by a TMAC member) urged the city to consider higher minimum ages for motorized conveyances, mandatory helmets for riders under 18, designated riding areas (bike lanes and multi-use paths rather than sidewalks), a citywide micromobility operating-speed cap (example proposed: 15 mph), geofencing that slows shared-rental devices to walking speed in high-pedestrian areas, and parking rules to keep devices upright and out of pedestrian clearways. The email warned: "Police do not do anything, and someone is going to die," describing citizen frustration…