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Villa Park holds first reading to allow low‑speed e‑scooters; trustees debate fines and education
Summary
The board held a first reading of an ordinance to permit low‑speed electric scooters in Villa Park under state rules requiring local opt‑in; trustees debated penalty levels, enforcement and public education while Chief Kubish and staff recommended a phased approach.
The Village Board of Villa Park held a first reading on an ordinance that would allow operation of low‑speed electric scooters, reversing the current de facto prohibition while creating local regulation and penalties.
Manager Rivas said the ordinance would amend the municipal code to permit low‑speed electric scooters in Villa Park under state law, subject to local safety rules. Chief Todd Kubish and staff attended the discussion and answered trustees’ questions about enforcement and educational outreach.
Trustees focused on enforcement and penalty levels. Trustee Constatos proposed higher fines—suggesting $150–$250 for initial violations—to create stronger parental accountability and deter repeat off‑road riding. Counsel and staff noted the village code currently contains four preset fine classes (roughly $25, $35, $50 and $350); setting a $150–$250 fine would require creating a new fine class. Trustee Constatos said higher fines could reduce repeated unsafe behavior by minors.
Other trustees urged a layered approach: an early public‑education campaign targeted at parents and schools, progressive fines for repeat offenders and community outreach at events such as National Night Out and the fall festival. Trustees also asked staff to compile a link to the relevant state statute and to coordinate with local hospitals about reported injuries.
Manager Rivas said the ordinance is at first reading and will return to the board for further discussion and potential amendment on July 28. He said staff removed a preliminary social‑media post about e‑scooter rules because the ordinance had not yet passed and that, until the board adopts an ordinance, e‑scooter operation in Villa Park remains prohibited under current municipal practice.
Ending: Trustees directed staff to prepare fee‑structure options, an education plan and a link to the state law for the next meeting; the ordinance will return for further consideration on July 28.
