Clark council introduces ordinance to regulate e-bikes; public hearing set for June 15

The Township of Clark Council on June 1 introduced Ordinance 2619 to amend Chapter 347 of the code to regulate motorized bicycles, scooters and e-bikes, citing state reclassification earlier this year.

Mayor Albanese summarized the draft ordinance, noting it will update the municipal code to address e-bikes and related safety rules following state action in January. "I recommend highly that citizens of Clark who have e-bikes… please tell them about this ordinance so they can stay on top of it and conduct themselves in a safe manner," he said.

Council moved and seconded introduction of the ordinance; the roll-call for introduction was unanimous (Council member Hoff — yes; Council member Hund — yes; Council member Maniti — yes; Council member Okconor — yes; Council member Tol — yes; Council President Smith — yes). The council set a public hearing on the ordinance for June 15.

During council remarks, Council Member Okconor said the local rules are being tightened for safety reasons and referenced past moped-era problems and unsafe e-bike riding patterns he said the ordinance seeks to prevent. "These rules are put in place for safety," he said, praising the police department and staff for their work on the draft.

The ordinance is at the introduction stage; the council will accept public comment and consider adoption after the June 15 hearing.