Council adopts ordinances governing low‑speed micro‑mobility devices and electric bicycles

The Washington Court House City Council on May 22 adopted ordinances updating local rules for low‑speed micro‑mobility devices and electric bicycles.

Council moved Ordinance 8‑2026 to third reading and read a short summary amending section 76.14 to address low‑speed micro‑mobility devices. A motion for passage was made and members approved the ordinance by roll call.

Council then placed Ordinance 9‑2026 on third reading. The ordinance amends section 75.16 governing electric bicycles. After brief acknowledgment that the items related to electric mobility, a motion for passage was made, seconded and adopted by roll call. Officials did not record extended debate on the technical provisions at the meeting.

Why it matters: the ordinances update local code to reflect the rise of small electric vehicles and to set rules for how they may be used in the city, an issue that local officials have discussed in committee. The changes are intended to clarify equipment definitions, permitted locations, and safety expectations for residents and visitors.

What happened at the meeting: the ordinances were read in brief by the clerk and advanced to (and passed on) third reading with majority votes recorded on the meeting floor. No amendments were offered during the council session.

Next steps: the ordinances, having passed on third reading, will be codified in the city code and enforcement responsibility will fall to the appropriate city departments. Council did not set a local effective date during the meeting; any effective date will follow the city’s regular codification process.