Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Traffic And Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board pushes golf-cart ordinance back for revision after lengthy safety and enforcement debate
Summary
Trustees continued discussion of a proposed ordinance and a companion resolution to allow and regulate golf carts, low-speed vehicles and similar vehicles on village streets; they asked staff to specify safety items (rearview mirror, slow-moving-vehicle marking/flag, lights), clarify crossing rules for Horseshoe Bend and return with revised language and proposed permit fees in January.
The Village of Four Seasons trustees spent a substantial portion of their Dec. 11 meeting debating a proposed ordinance and companion resolution to regulate golf carts, low-speed vehicles and similar vehicles on village streets. No final vote was taken; staff were directed to refine language and return in January.
Trustees and the public discussed inspection logistics, safety equipment, crossings, speed restrictions and enforcement. Key points included a recommended checklist inspection at registration, a requirement for a slow-moving-vehicle triangle (or flagged alternative), lights and rearview mirrors, clarification that carts should not use pedestrian paths, and whether crossing Horseshoe Bend should be allowed only at signalized intersections.
Trustee discussion highlighted enforcement considerations: municipal counsel and staff noted the sheriffs office involvement and prosecutorial discretion. "If you want this to be enforceable, you need law enforcement to participate," municipal counsel Todd Miller said, adding that enforcement and a fine schedule could be set later by ordinance.
Trustees directed staff to add specific safety requirements (rearview mirror, slow-moving triangle or flag, lights always on while operating), clarify where crossings are permitted (the resolution currently excludes Horseshoe Bend), and prepare a registration/permit framework and fee schedule for a future vote. Staff and some trustees emphasized the ordinance can be amended later as enforcement experience and community feedback accumulate.
Why it matters Allowing golf carts on village streets can expand mobility for residents and visitors but raises safety and enforcement questions on narrow and busy local roads. The boards decision to refine the ordinance before a vote gives trustees time to define inspection points, enforcement roles and a permit process for seasonal visitors.
Next steps Staff will revise the draft ordinance and the companion resolution to specify required safety equipment and inspection procedures, clarify crossing rules (particularly around Horseshoe Bend) and propose a permit fee and enforcement language for trustees to consider at a future meeting (anticipated in January).
