Resident urges action on fast electric scooters near senior community; council cites enforcement limits and plans education

Dan Aton, a West Des Moines resident who gave his address to the record, told the City Council that seniors in his Courtyards at King’s Landing community are experiencing dangerous behavior from electric scooters and mopeds on streets and near the Sugar Creek trail. “We don't wanna wait until 1 of our residences is injured nor until 1 of the kids is injured or killed,” Aton said, recounting several near-miss incidents.

Mayor (first reference as Mayor) acknowledged the concern and said the city has already started a public education campaign and is looking at additional actions. The mayor said council members Lotz and Hudson will take the matter to the Public Safety committee and that staff are reviewing how to define and enforce vehicle restrictions on trails and private streets.

Council members and staff described enforcement as the most difficult constraint. One council member said by the time reports reach police the rider is often long gone, and others agreed that a uniform regional rule would be preferable but unlikely. Parks and public-safety officials discussed options including education campaigns, clearer signage, and exploring speed or power thresholds for devices allowed on trails. Several council members emphasized distinguishing mobility devices used by residents with disabilities from recreational scooters and mopeds.

The mayor and council did not take formal action at the meeting; instead they said they would review options in the Public Safety committee and consider education and enforcement approaches. The council repeatedly framed near-term emphasis on outreach and compliance rather than an immediate citywide ban.