Residents press city on e‑bike safety; attorney accuses water district of large rate hike and council clarifies limits

At the Yorba Linda City Council meeting on April 13, residents used the public comment period to press for stronger e‑bike safety measures and to raise alarms about proposed water‑rate increases at the Yorba Linda Water District.

Richard de Bruin described a recent sheriff‑led e‑bike presentation and urged city action on training and regulation. “They explained the 3 different e‑bike classes … Class 1, 10 miles per hour. Number 2, 20 miles per hour. And the last 1, class 3, 28 miles per hour,” de Bruin said, and argued that licensing, registration and improved equipment security are needed to reduce injuries. He cited local and statewide accident increases and asked whether e‑bikes should be allowed on sidewalks.

Attorney and resident Bob Chichester used his allotted public comment time to sharply criticize the Yorba Linda Water District’s board. Chichester alleged the board “approved exorbitant and excessive increases to water … rates of 9% a year and 45 to 50% over a 5 year period effective 07/01/2026,” and said the board ignored hundreds of protest letters. “This arrogance and blatant disrespect of the city and its residents were openly led by the district legal counsel and president,” Chichester said, calling for greater accountability.

Councilmembers did not take immediate formal action on the water‑district matter. Councilmember Shavinder Singh asked staff and the city attorney to clarify the city’s role; City Attorney Tyler Lytham told the council that “the Yorba Linda Water District is a complete separate legal entity. We, as a city council, have no authority or legal jurisdiction to impact, raise, lower, do anything with water rates.” The city attorney added the city is nevertheless a major customer and will be affected by any increases.

Captain (Orange County Sheriff’s Department) described recent enforcement and outreach, saying deputies had held pop‑up events for education, conducted targeted enforcement during spring break in areas with heavy youth e‑bike use, and impounded a number of illegal, motorized bikes. “We were able to give the kids that we see doing it right … recognition in the form of gift cards,” the captain said, describing a mix of enforcement and positive reinforcement.

The council did not vote on regulatory changes regarding e‑bikes or take action directed at the water district during the meeting. Council members encouraged continued coordination with the sheriff’s office and with the public to improve safety and awareness.