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Golf-cart ordinance fails after safety and enforcement concerns
Summary
A proposed first reading of Ordinance 039 to expand golf-cart use in St. James — including permits, liability insurance, 15 mph max speed and 10 mph with a child aboard — was debated extensively and the motion to approve failed at the meeting.
Council considered a first reading of Ordinance 039, a proposed amendment to Chapter 72 of the St. James City Code to broaden who may operate golf carts in the city.
Staff described the draft ordinance as expanding permission beyond current allowances for individuals with mobility issues; it would create an annual permit application process, require proof of liability insurance, set a 15 mph speed limit (10 mph if a child is present), and require drivers hold a valid driver’s license (minimum age follows state vehicle rules, typically 16). "So right now our ordinance essentially allows individuals with mobility issues or, disabilities to operate, golf carts within our community and this ordinance would open that up for anybody in our community," the staff member said. Several council members raised public-safety, enforcement and aesthetic concerns; one member recounted a recent local crash involving a golf cart and said, "I'm not for this at all." After discussion, a motion to approve the ordinance failed.
Key elements left unresolved in the draft included the permit fee (not set at the meeting) and whether minimum age/seat-belt/car-seat language needed clarification. The council did not approve the ordinance on first reading and no further action date was set during the meeting.
