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Officials urge registration, caution after near-miss incidents involving scooters; police outline $50 registration fee
Summary
Commissioners and the police chief discussed near-miss incidents involving electric scooters, advised registration for scooters used on roadways and noted a $50 registration fee consistent with other motorized devices; chief said manufacturer labeling and local ordinances determine roadway eligibility.
Council discussion highlighted growing safety concerns about children riding electric scooters in traffic and intersections.
Commissioner Meeks described recent near-miss incidents and said, "I've almost killed 3 kids on these scooters" while urging the council to take action because "somebody's gonna get hurt." Meeks asked whether the city can restrict scooter use to sidewalks or require other measures.
Chief Finch responded that allowable use depends on manufacturer labels and local ordinances, and the department prefers to advise residents rather than publish a confusing hard rule by size. Finch told the council the city offers registration and officer guidance for residents with questions, and confirmed there is a $50 registration fee for scooters used on roadways: "It is a $50 registration fee." The chief said registration mirrors fees for motorized bicycles and golf carts.
Council members asked about enforcement and whether specific sizes must be registered. Finch said if a device will be used on a roadway, it must be registered; he cautioned that labels vary (some list 14, some 16) and that officers are available to help avoid misunderstandings.
Next steps: the council tabled detailed policy wording for later and requested the police department provide guidance on registration and enforcement at a future meeting.
