Pulaski County to advertise ordinance limiting motorized and equine use on Pulaski Park trails

Pulaski County Fiscal Court voted to advertise for first reading an ordinance that would limit use of Pulaski Park trails to pedestrians, joggers and mountain bikes and prohibit motorized vehicles, electric dirt bikes and certain equine uses.

At the meeting, Josh Harris, a local bike-shop owner and avid trail user, told the court the county has seen “a significant uptick in unauthorized trail use,” citing growing golf-cart and side-by-side traffic and an increase in electric dirt bikes that can reach high speeds. Harris said those vehicles and horseback riders are damaging volunteer-built single-track trails and raise safety concerns where families and children use the paths.

Martin, the court’s attorney, summarized the ordinance’s key provisions and enforcement approach, saying it defines prohibited uses, calls for clearer signage and creates penalties designed to support enforcement: “for the first offense there would be a written warning or a fine up to $250 maximum,” with escalating fines, possible impoundment and permanent bans for repeat violators. The ordinance text shown to the court includes equine restrictions and explicit prohibitions on electric dirt bikes and motorcycles.

Presiding members moved to advertise the ordinance so it can receive a formal first reading; Mr. Wheeldon moved, Mr. Turpin seconded and the court voted to advertise the ordinance for first reading. The advertisement initiates the public notice process and will return to the court for additional readings and a final vote at a later meeting.

The court did not adopt the ordinance at the meeting; advertising starts the formal review and a future meeting will include further debate, public comment and a potential final vote.