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Council advances first reading of ordinance limiting electric scooters, bikes and hoverboards after youth and resident concerns
Summary
After a public hearing, the council performed the first reading of Ordinance 1313, which would regulate electric scooters, electric bicycles, and hoverboards. A 12-year-old resident urged less-restrictive options and suggested a youth safety course; councilmember Kleeb proposed language limiting minors without a provisional permit.
The Broken Bow City Council opened a public hearing on Ordinance 1313 on July 14 and performed the ordinance's first reading after public comment. The measure would amend Chapter 74 (Recreational Vehicles) to regulate electric scooters, electric bicycles and hoverboards on city property, impose safety equipment requirements, and authorize penalties and impoundment.
During public comment, 12-year-old resident Deacon Johnk told the council that "It doesn't feel fair to punish everyone just because of a few people. I'm not asking for there to be no rules. I'm just asking for rules that let us ride safely without taking away our independence." Councilmember Travis Kleeb asked that language in Section 74.02 be revised to match another subsection by adding the phrase "No minor person without a valid provisional operator's permit (POP) or operator's license" to the start of a sentence. Resident Spencer Olson also urged the council to let parents decide helmet use and raised concerns about safe highway crossings for south-side children. The council voted not to waive the three readings and the city clerk performed the first reading.
