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Residents urge action on illegal dirt bikes; council to coordinate with sheriff and state police
Summary
A Fernley resident described dangerous dirt‑bike incidents and urged stronger enforcement and fines; councilmembers said they have forwarded social media reports to the sheriff's deputy and will invite state police to a future meeting to discuss enforcement.
At the July 2 public forum, resident Jim Kerr said repeated incidents of dirt bikes riding on sidewalks and at high speeds have created hazardous conditions near residences and parks, including a near‑miss with children on the sidewalk.
Kerr asked whether laws are insufficient or enforcement is lax and proposed escalating fines and impoundment for repeat offenders. "Something has to be done before one of the citizens are hurt or these kids are hurt," he said.
Councilmembers responded that they routinely forward social media posts and complaints to the Lander County Sheriff's Office and that Deputy Chief Branningham had been alerted. Councilman Hannon said he has forwarded posts to the sheriff's deputy and that the council will coordinate with the state police because the incidents occurred on a state road. Council staff said the city could post reminders about ATV laws and consider a future workshop; the state police were invited to appear at a future meeting under agenda item 3 to report on enforcement approaches.
No ordinance or new enforcement action was adopted at the meeting; the discussion concluded with staff and council promising continued coordination with law enforcement and outreach to residents.
