Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation Micromobility topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
River Falls adopts rules for electric bicycles and scooters, sets forfeitures and urges public education
Summary
The City Council passed Ordinance 2026-14 to create a new chapter regulating electric bicycles and scooters. Council discussed signage, rider education, helmet encouragement, and municipal forfeitures of $5–$500 for first offenses and $10–$1,000 for subsequent offenses plus court fees; education was emphasized before enforcement.
The River Falls City Council approved Ordinance 2026-14 on July 14, adding a chapter to Title 10 of the municipal code governing electric bicycles and electric scooters.
During the second-reading public hearing and council discussion, Councilmember (speaker 11) asked whether the city's bike-path and multimodal planning would address signage, speed limits and rider education. The City Administrator (speaker 3) said appropriate signage is generally covered in the city's plans and the new ordinance provides an opportunity to expand education efforts.
Attorney Gearhart (speaker 12) explained enforcement mechanisms: the ordinance refers to the city's general penalty provision. The forfeiture range discussed was $5 to $500 for a first offense and $10 to $1,000 for second and subsequent offenses, with mandatory municipal court fees on top of the base forfeiture. The council noted that, in practice, officers may issue warnings and that the city expects to emphasize education before issuing citations.
Councilmember (speaker 4) and Chief Young (speaker 9) voiced support for prioritizing education and a phased approach to enforcement. After discussion, a council member (speaker 10) moved to approve Ordinance 2026-14 and the council approved the motion by voice vote.
The ordinance creates the legal framework for when and where electric bicycles and scooters may be used in the city, establishes a penalty mechanism tied to the municipal code, and directs staff to develop signage and education as part of implementation.
