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Commissioners debate impoundment of self‑propelled bikes after sidewalk enforcement
Summary
The commission discussed recent police impoundments of self-propelled bikes operated on sidewalks. Staff and police said the vehicles are treated like motor vehicles for sidewalk prohibitions and towing, with reclaim fees of about $500 per bike reported; commissioners expressed concern about impacts on youths.
Commissioners spent substantial time on March 18 discussing a police enforcement action that resulted in the impoundment of self‑propelled bicycles and other motorized devices operated on sidewalks.
Staff and police representatives said state law treats those motorized devices in ways that make sidewalk operation unlawful and, in the reported incident, the vehicles were towed. A public-safety speaker explained that towing and storage charges mirror those for motor vehicles — an initial county tow fee plus daily storage and administrative fees — and that in the case discussed each bike cost roughly $500 to recover, with families sometimes incurring about $1,000 in combined charges.
A police representative described the vehicles as "considered vehicles" under applicable law and said officers must act when devices are operated on sidewalks. Municipal penalties vary by location inside or outside parks: staff noted a $50 city fine for certain park ordinance violations and a $250 moving-violation fine in other contexts. Commissioners acknowledged the safety rationale but expressed concern about the severity of the financial impact on minors and asked staff about alternatives and public education.
No change to enforcement policy or immediate vote was announced at the meeting; commissioners asked staff to publicize rules and consider outreach so residents know the law and potential penalties.
