La Puente officials confirm no motorized bikes in park for July 3; discuss broader e‑bike safety measures

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department told the La Puente City Council on May 12 that planning for the city's July 3 celebration is proceeding with no major changes from last year and that deputies will enforce safety measures, including a prohibition on motorized bikes in the park during the event. The department also announced that Deputy Lemmon will leave the team this week to join the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.

Sheriff's Department representative (speaking at the council briefing) said planning went well and that organizers "hope to keep it as copacetic as it was last year," and that, "No e bikes, no motorized bikes in the park on July 3." The department urged continued coordination with city staff for operational details.

Council members and staff used the briefing to broaden the discussion to citywide safety concerns about higher‑powered e‑bikes and motorcycle‑style e‑vehicles. Mayor noted the frequency of serious injuries reported in local news and encouraged a public education campaign with the Youth Activities League. A councilmember suggested the city explore municipal code changes to distinguish between pedal‑assist e‑bikes and motorized motorcycles being sold or used as scooters, saying stricter local regulation for motorized e‑vehicles may be needed.

City staff and the Sheriff's representative discussed a two‑track response: (1) immediate outreach and safety education to parents and youth through the Y and community events, and (2) staff review of ordinances to determine whether changes to municipal code or local park rules are warranted. No formal ordinance or ordinance reading was proposed or voted on during the meeting.

The council did not take a formal vote on new regulations at the May 12 meeting; staff were asked to follow up on education dates, enforcement plans for July 3, and whether a draft municipal code change should be prepared for a future meeting.