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McCandless adopts ordinance restricting e-bikes and other motorized devices on town property, retains disability carve‑out
Summary
Council voted to adopt an ordinance that sets rules for electronic bicycles and other motorized devices on town parks and property, including limits and parental‑responsibility provisions; councilors urged state action to standardize vehicle definitions and discussed enforcement challenges.
The Town of McCandless on June 22 adopted Ordinance 1571 to regulate the use of electronic bicycles and other electrically motorized devices on town parks and property, with an explicit exception for devices designed for people with disabilities.
During public comment, Marsha Caleondo (10529 Abby) urged clearer definitions in the ordinance so the language does not inadvertently exclude mobility devices for persons with disabilities and asked whether e‑scooters and stand‑on scooters were covered by the definitions. “When you define e‑bike, you do say that the term does not include devices specifically designed for use by persons with disabilities, which I'm glad to see,” Caleondo said, but she asked that the same protection be included where the code defines “electrically motorized device.”
Councilors discussed enforceability and the need for clearer statewide definitions. One council member called on state legislators to define what constitutes a motorized scooter versus an e‑bike so local rules can be consistently enforced. Council debate touched on age restrictions, speed limits, helmet use and parental responsibility for children; the ordinance includes penalty provisions and a parental‑responsibility component for minors on town property.
The ordinance drew broad support on the council, which approved it by a 6‑0 vote. Councilors and staff acknowledged enforcement will be largely complaint‑driven and encouraged residents to urge state lawmakers to clarify vehicle definitions so municipalities have consistent tools.
The ordinance does not change state roadway rules and only governs town parks and property; devices used as mobility aids for persons with disabilities are exempted from the prohibition. The council’s action will take effect per the ordinance schedule and the town solicitor and police will prepare any necessary implementation guidance for public posting and enforcement.
