Parks board debates limits on e‑bikes and scooters on athletic fields

The Tony Towne parks board discussed whether electric bicycles and similar motorized devices should be restricted in parks, particularly on athletic fields, as the city council considers an updated ordinance.

"We did send out an email to the athletic organizations asking them what their thoughts were on that," a staff member said, and reported that organizations that responded requested prohibiting e‑bikes on athletic fields. Staff described a range of e‑bike types — some that look like bicycles and others that resemble electric dirt bikes — and said heavier‑tired, high‑power models concern park users and athletic groups because they can damage turf.

Board members debated policy options. One member suggested linking a restriction to demonstrable harm rather than a blanket ban: "Wouldn't it be better just to link it to harm?" that member said. Another recommended a technical cutoff (class or power threshold) to differentiate high‑powered machines from ordinary electric bicycles used for transportation. A public commenter suggested allowing use during dry conditions while limiting access when fields are wet to reduce turf damage.

Staff proposed follow‑up steps: collect photos and examples of observed damage, gather further input from athletic groups, review what other municipalities are doing, and consider asking council for a resolution to add a park‑rule prohibition specifically for athletic fields if warranted. The board discussed enforcement mechanisms noted in the draft city ordinance (helmet requirements, officer recourse for particularly egregious behavior, impoundment and fines) but emphasized caution about overcriminalizing ordinary park use.

The board did not adopt a binding policy at the meeting and asked staff to gather additional evidence and model language for council consideration.