Commission finds preliminary need for more low-speed-vehicle permits after public hearing

The Metropolitan Transportation Licensing Commission opened its annual hearing on low-speed vehicles to consider whether additional permits are needed. Director Rooker reviewed the governing code and told the commission there are 37 active permits held by Joyride and 10 permits issued to Vintage Tours that appear unused; staff counted 47 active permits at present. Three new companies applied: GoKart LLC (2 permits), L and L Transportation (4 permits) and Las Vegas RISE (15 permits).

Applicants and supporters described operations at conventions and events and argued the vehicles provide last-mile and sober-ride options. A GoKart LLC representative said the company operates in several Southeastern cities and has experience serving large events; L and L Transport representatives and family members urged four permits to serve downtown restaurants and hotels and to provide safe rides for intoxicated patrons. Grace Lewis and other testifiers raised questions about where vehicles would stage and whether use of the pedestrian bridge and loading zones would be lawful.

Commissioners pressed applicants for data demonstrating unmet public demand. One commissioner said the code requires a showing of public convenience and necessity, not merely a business opportunity; others noted convention-driven, seasonal fluctuations and that Joyride currently holds a large market share. Legal staff explained that dormant permits can be revoked after six months under the new state-linked rule but cautioned about due-process limits when withdrawing already-granted permits.

After public testimony and discussion the commission took a two-step approach: first to decide whether a public convenience/necessity exists for additional LSVs, and then to allocate permits. The commission voted to find that threshold met (step one). Commissioners then moved to act on individual applications; a motion to approve two permits for GoKart LLC was made and carried into deliberations. The commission emphasized that issuance remains contingent on vehicle inspection, proof of insurance and compliance with conditions of permit.

Next steps: staff will return to the commission with inspection and compliance findings before issuing permits. The commission also deferred an entertainment-transportation agenda item to October so an absent council member could participate.