Trumbull council considers e-bike ordinance after residents raise trail safety concerns

The Trumbull Town Council discussed a proposed e-bike ordinance on Aug. 3, with police and the town attorney outlining enforcement and legal limits and residents urging clearer rules for trail safety.

Chief of Police Michael Lombardo described challenges enforcing e-bike rules on trails and school parking areas, and said the department has pursued education and added community policing. Town Attorney Daniel Schopick cautioned that state law defines e-bike classifications and that towns cannot change those classifications by local ordinance; he emphasized the need for precise definitions and careful wording — especially for any age-specific rules. The transcript records a $25 fine currently applied for e-bikes on trails and notes the council discussed the possibility of increasing it.

First Selectman Vicki A. Tesoro framed the issue broadly: "how serious they take this situation; this is not only a serious problem in the state of CT but all over the country," and said the administration has reviewed the ordinance, met with the delegation, and will continue work to add enforceable restrictions. Dmitri Paris, parks superintendent, confirmed the park ordinance allows e-bikes on roads but not trails and discussed efforts to prohibit e-bikes on park properties.

Two residents spoke during public comment. Winston Chou of 141 Royals Court described meeting with the police chief and officials and urged clearer definitions and enforcement. Janice Feher of 110 Whitney Avenue also urged better enforcement, citing safety concerns on trails. The council agreed a draft ordinance would be prepared and circulated ahead of the September committee meeting.