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Council weighs options on e-bike safety and possible local regulations
Summary
Following complaints about e-bikes and scooters downtown and near the ballpark, staff, police and council members discussed state classifications of e-bikes, enforcement limits, and potential local responses ranging from education to local ordinances for helmets or restricted areas.
Council members, law enforcement and staff spent significant time on complaints about electric bicycles and similar devices, especially Class 3 e-bikes that can reach higher speeds. Staff and the police explained state law treats e-bikes like bicycles — Class 3 models have an age limit and can reach faster speeds — but municipalities may adopt certain local safety regulations; enforcement of speed and traffic violations remains possible under existing traffic laws.
Speakers discussed options including starting with education and social-media outreach, drafting a local ordinance to require helmets or restrict sidewalk riding, or establishing a permitting or registration system. A city official summarized the legislative constraint: “Class 3, they run 40 mile an hour,” noting state statute imposes an age threshold for some high-powered models. Council asked staff and the city attorney to research other municipalities’ approaches and return with draft language and recommendations.
