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South Hill council rejects golf-cart ordinance that would have limited use to 25 mph streets
Summary
Council considered ordinance O-02-26 to permit golf carts on town streets with posted speed limits of 25 mph, require lights and insurance, and institute a $10 permit; the motion to adopt failed on a 4–3 roll-call vote.
Councilors debated a proposed ordinance (O-02-26) on April 13, 2026 that would have allowed golf carts to operate on South Hill streets where the posted speed limit is 25 mph, required functioning headlights and brake lights, mandated insurance coverage, and established a $10 annual town permit.
Town Manager Keli Reekes presented the draft ordinance, explaining it would prohibit golf carts from crossing roadways with posted speeds greater than 25 mph and restrict their operation on major arteries including Route 1, Route 58, and Route 47. Councilor Carl Sasser moved to adopt O-02-26; Councilor Ashley Hardee seconded.
The motion failed by roll call: Councilors Randy Crocker, Jenifer Freeman-Hite, Gavin Honeycutt and Delores Luster voted No; Councilors Ashley Hardee, Carl Sasser and Michael Smith voted Aye. Opponents cited safety and enforcement concerns; supporters argued for mobility options for residents.
The ordinance text included specific operational rules—daylight-only operation, prohibition from bicycle lanes and sidewalks, driver licensing requirements, and escalating penalties for repeat violations. Because adoption failed, the town will not implement the permit fee, insurance requirement, or the operational limits contained in O-02-26 at this time.
Council did not schedule further action on the ordinance during the April 13 meeting. Any future consideration will require a new motion and public notice under local procedures.
