Hooper council reviews enforcement, draft ordinance after rise in motorized use of parks and detention basins

Hooper City Council discussed how to enforce existing prohibitions on motorized vehicles in parks and on trails after police and staff reported more motorcycles, e-bikes and other powered devices operating on city property.

Lieutenant Slater told the council staff found a “no trespassing” sign at the property near 5100 South and 5500 West and saw motorbikes and jump hills built adjacent to a slough that creates a state-controlled waterway and a roughly 100-foot easement. He said the state has become involved and the city will need a state permit before removing the jump hills. Staff located the homeowner who built the features and told the family the city intends to remove them, but Slater said contact with the state permitting staff was delayed because the staff contact had a personal emergency.

Why it matters: Council members said the activity raises safety, erosion and liability concerns and…