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Council takes first look at motorized-personal-transportation ordinance; debate centers on Class 3 ebikes and trails
Summary
The council heard a first reading of an ordinance to regulate ebikes, motorized scooters and other personal-transportation devices, including helmet requirements for under-18s, 15 mph speed limits on multi-use trails and proposed exclusions for Commercial Avenue sidewalks and certain parks and trails; debate focused on Class 3 ebikes and enforcement on the Tommy Thompson Trail.
The Anacortes City Council received a first reading of Ordinance 5032, which consolidates rules for personal transportation devices including ebikes, motorized foot scooters and nonmotorized bicycles. Chief Floyd presented the draft code, which: requires helmets for users under 18; sets a 15 mph speed limit on multi-use and hard-surface trails; requires lights and reflectors for night operation; and excludes operation of motorized scooters and Class 3 ebikes on sidewalks in designated downtown Commercial Avenue blocks.
The draft also proposes civil-penalty amounts for noncompliance (a class 4 civil infraction of $52 for a first offense, escalating to $103 for subsequent violations within a year) and includes a mechanism for seizing devices used by juveniles until an adult picks them up. Chief Floyd said education would be the first enforcement approach and that harsher penalties would be reserved for egregious or repeat conduct.
Council and public discussion emphasized difficulties identifying Class 1/2/3 ebike categories in the field, enforcement on shared trails, and the proposed allowance or prohibition of Class 3 ebikes on the Tommy Thompson Trail. Several residents described fast-moving electric bikes and unsafe encounters on the Tommy Thompson Trail and urged bans or strict limits for Class 3 vehicles there. Others urged measured allowances for commuter routes where appropriate signage and speed limits apply.
Councilmembers asked staff to clarify applicability relative to the recently adopted ACFL (Anacortes Community Forest Lands) code and to work with the parks department, enforcement and the school district on education and signage before a second reading. The committee recommended cross-referencing the ACFL rules rather than wholesale duplication. The ordinance was left on the agenda for more refinement and community outreach before returning for further council action.
