Hastings council approves first reading of ordinance regulating e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards

The Hastings City Council approved first reading of Ordinance 4815, which amends the city traffic code to address e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards, on an 8–0 vote.

City staff summarized edits since the previous meeting: a new lighting requirement for devices, removal of a provision that prohibited operation between sunset and sunrise, and a reduced speed limit on bike trails from 25 to 15 mph. Staff said other sections of the proposed code remain unchanged and that the council may amend language before second reading.

Council debate focused on enforceability and safety. Council members raised the difficulty of enforcing a numeric speed limit on trails, suggested use of legal standards such as "due regard" or cautionary language to improve enforceability, and discussed the possibility of striping or signage to separate motorized users from pedestrians. Members asked whether gas-powered devices and one-wheel devices are included; staff confirmed those devices are covered.

Several council members expressed particular concern about Second Street downtown — a one-way commercial corridor with delivery trucks and narrow sightlines — and asked staff to consider language that would require riders to dismount and walk devices along that block or expressly prohibit riding there. Staff recommended approving the ordinance on first reading as-is and returning with refined language for second reading.

The council voted to approve first reading 8–0; staff said an educational rollout will follow and enforcement will be coordinated with police resources prior to full implementation.