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Ashwaubenon board debates mopeds and electric 'dirt bikes,' directs staff to seek motorsports site with county
Summary
After extended discussion of enforcement, safety and land suitability for mopeds and electric dirt bikes, the Ashwaubenon Village Board directed staff to work with Brown County and village committees to identify potential locations for a motorsports site; staff had advised against broad policy changes without a designated, lawful site.
The Ashwaubenon Village Board voted May 26 to direct staff to work with Brown County and village committees to evaluate potential sites where off‑highway motorcycles and larger electric dirt bikes could operate lawfully and safely.
Village staff cautioned the board that many commercially marketed "e‑bikes" do not meet Wisconsin's statutory definitions for class 1–3 electric bicycles and instead qualify as mopeds, motor bicycles or off‑highway motorcycles that require registration, licensing and age limits. "Staff at this point is not recommending making any policy changes," Joel, a village staff presenter, told the board, explaining enforcement and legal complications if the village were to permit the devices on public lands.
Chief Baxter, who oversees public safety operations, described the difficulty officers face in distinguishing device types in the field and said the village plans to produce an educational infographic for residents and enforcement staff. "We need a chart so we can sit and talk to people to educate them," Chief Baxter said.
Several board members and residents urged the village to find a place where young riders can use motorized bikes off road. One resident who identified himself during public comment said, "It's time to give the kids something they can do," arguing for a dedicated motorsports area rather than allowing use across conservancies and parks.
Board members debated options ranging from village retention ponds and industrial land to county properties such as the Brown County Fairgrounds and airport lands. Staff noted multiple operational and liability questions, including how users would access a facility, whether equipment and supervision would be required, and how to reconcile state traffic law with designated off‑highway sites.
Ultimately the board approved a motion directing staff to: (1) work with Brown County to identify county land that might be suitable for a motorsports facility, (2) evaluate village‑owned land as an option, and (3) engage the Parks and Recreation and Bicycle & Pedestrian committees and public safety on feasibility and program design. The motion passed by voice vote.
What happens next: Staff will report back to the board with potential sites and recommendations for program structure, permitting and education; no code change was adopted at the May 26 meeting.
