Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press for lower speed limits, signage and hours amid noise and safety worries
Summary
Proponents presented decibel and fatality statistics to argue ATVs/UTVs are manageable; residents asked for 15 mph sensitive‑area speeds, daylight hours and route‑by‑route limits to address sight‑distance and noise near homes.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on safety and noise. Proponents cited comparative decibel figures for side‑by‑sides (75–95 dB at 50 feet) and attributed many fatalities to lack of helmet use and alcohol; they proposed helmet mandates, insurance and speed limits in sensitive areas. A presenter argued that measured side‑by‑sides are "considerably quieter than a lot of things that are going down," and noted decibels fall quickly with distance.
Residents countered that several roads (notably Channel Road and parts of Route 140) have limited sight lines and are used by walkers, horses and dogs; they pushed for explicit 15 mph limits in sensitive zones, daylight‑only hours and clear signage. Proponents agreed some segments should have lower posted speeds and said hours and seasonal limits are on the table. The draft ordinance, when published, will need to show selected speed zones, signage plans and specific hours to give residents confidence ahead of a November vote.
