Newton council advances scooter and low‑speed vehicle ordinance after safety discussion

The Newton City Council took initial action May 18 on a proposed ordinance (Title 7, Chapter 74) to regulate electric scooters, low‑speed electric bicycles and small motorized two‑wheelers.

Chair (speaker 2) presented the ordinance as a response to growing safety concerns. Council members described multiple near misses and neighborhood incidents — including reports of e‑bikes operating above 25 mph on the hike‑and‑bike trail — and asked how gas‑powered makeshift two‑wheelers and small mopeds would be classified.

Captain Wing of the Newton Police Department (speaker 12) told council that vehicles that exceed 39 miles per hour are classified as motorized vehicles and therefore must meet licensing, registration and insurance requirements. He said the city will treat many of these issues educationally, giving officers latitude to address youth safety and to contact parents when necessary. Council members pressed about enforcement where sidewalks do not exist and how the rule would affect people who must briefly ride in the street to reach a sidewalk; Captain Wing said authorities expect most enforcement to be education‑first.

Council members raised questions about where improvised gas‑engine two‑wheelers fit in the code and asked staff to clarify age and licensing thresholds; the city indicated staff will return with more detail. The council approved the ordinance’s first consideration on a roll call vote.

The ordinance will return for additional readings, and staff said the city is monitoring state guidance because, without statewide rules, municipalities must create their own regulations.