Olivet council adopts off-road vehicle ordinance, narrows 'streets' definition to city roads

The Olivet City Council on Sept. 9 adopted a municipal ordinance regulating off-road vehicles (ORVs), resolving a public-comment period and a wording change requested by a council member.

Mayor Laura Barlond-Maas opened the public hearing; several residents and riders spoke in support of having a local ordinance. "I feel it follows the State law," said Jennifer Dingman, who reviewed the proposed ordinance and thanked the City for the effort to conform with state requirements. Rider Kevin Whipple said the lack of a local ordinance prevented him from visiting Olivet businesses while riding through town.

Commissioner Gary Peterson objected to a draft definition that had identified "streets" as "Eaton County primary road[s]," requesting the language be changed to refer specifically to "City of Olivet roads." Police Chief Shawn Garcia told the council he had reviewed the ordinance and was satisfied with its provisions.

The council adopted the ordinance with Peterson's correction to the definitions. The motion to adopt passed 6-0.

What this changes: Under the adopted ordinance, ORV operation within the city will be governed by city road definitions and state-aligned operating conditions discussed during the hearing, including age and safety provisions; the council also clarified registration distinctions raised by speakers (registering an ORV as a motor vehicle requires street-legal equipment and insurance). The ordinance will be published with the corrected definitions and implemented by the Police Department.

Next steps: The Police Department will enforce the ordinance and the city clerk will publish the final text.