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Wichita resident urges code change to classify and regulate faster personal electronic mobility devices
Summary
Tyler Williams asked the council to create a new municipal code category for personal electronic mobility devices, capping speeds at 35 mph on like-speed roads and aligning rules with scooters and bicycles; two council members expressed support and offered to work with legal staff.
During the public-agenda segment, Tyler Williams, a Wichita resident and District 6 member of the public, asked the council to update Wichita Municipal Code §11.50.090 to create a distinct class for personal electronic mobility devices. Williams described his vehicle — a Meepo Vadar Hurricane — capable of speeds up to 35 miles per hour and argued the device should not be treated as a "toy." He proposed capping top speed at 35 mph for use on streets posted at 35 mph or below and treating the devices similarly to city scooters and bicycles with respect to where they may operate.
Council member Hoheisel asked whether such devices would operate in bike lanes where present or in the far-right lane where bike lanes are absent; Williams said Colorado treats similar devices like bicycles. Council member Johnson said she is open to reviewing the issue and offered to connect Williams with legal staff to draft language, and both Hoheisel and Johnson indicated willingness to work with him.
No formal ordinance was introduced at the meeting; council members asked the speaker to provide contact information to the clerk and requested staff and legal follow-up if an ordinance is formally drafted.
