Residents press Moab council for stronger OHV noise enforcement; staff discuss speed limits and signage

Three residents asked Moab City Council to act on neighborhood noise from off‑highway vehicles (OHVs) during public comment at the March 24 meeting. Bill Agee told the council he wants a clear noise‑abatement plan, an identified point of contact and enforcement that brings OHVs into compliance, saying, “we will support you if you support us.”

Pete Gross echoed the call, described muffler‑related health concerns and asked whether the city’s five‑year‑old noise ordinance has produced any citations; he said “200 to 400 private yard signs support quiet streets.” Eric Plourde said he cannot be in his yard in the evening when OHV noise is at its peak.

After public comment, Engineer Mark Jolissaint and Community Development Director Cory Shurtleff reviewed local roads, speed limits and tourism‑influenced traffic. Council discussed the legal difference between OHVs and street‑legal ATVs, noted that City signs indicating a 15 mph limit for OHVs do not comply with state code and will be removed, and considered engineered traffic calming on corridors such as 300 South, 400 East and Millcreek Drive.

Councilmembers stressed education combined with enforcement. Mayor Joette Langianese said consideration of connector speed limits should be “the first step” and recommended an education campaign to reach users. Councilmember Miles Loftin suggested changing buffering requirements for frontages on busy streets to reduce neighborhood impacts. There was no motion or formal vote on enforcement measures; staff will carry forward options for future council consideration.