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Residents and cyclists split over proposed class‑3 e‑bike limits on trails
Summary
Public commenters told the council the draft ordinance would unfairly restrict class‑3 e‑bike owners while others urged restrictions to protect pedestrians and children; speakers offered competing proposals for education, signage and targeted enforcement.
Public comment at the meeting featured sharply different perspectives on class‑3 e‑bike restrictions. Terry King told the council the draft "punishes responsible citizens in order to solve a problem that stems from the bad behavior of a relatively few reckless, mostly younger people," and criticized parts of the proposal that would limit class‑3 bike access and prohibit some devices that King said are functionally similar to scooters.
Charlie Kienas said the draft "bans class 3 bikes from trails and pathways unless specifically posted otherwise," arguing that the measure would penalize users who ride responsibly and use e‑bikes for family trips. By contrast, Hailey Bissaw — who identified herself as an avid bicyclist and a class‑3 owner — described her bike as "only a pedal assist" and said it had been a "game changer," while also calling the draft "poorly written" and asking staff to rework the language.
Speakers repeatedly urged rules that target unsafe behavior rather than vehicle capability, and several asked the council to clarify device definitions (including one‑wheel devices and high‑power eMotos) before any ordinance is adopted.
