Powell council tables proposed bicycle and e-bike code changes after residents urge clarifications

The Powell City Council on Feb. 2 paused consideration of a package of proposed ordinances to update municipal rules for bicycles and electric devices after an extended public-comment period that produced requests for clearer definitions and more detail on enforcement and infrastructure.

Attorney Scott Kolpitcke read Ordinances No. 2–9, 2026 (proposed additions and revisions to Chapter 10.24). Members of the public urged the council to refine definitions for e-bikes and similar devices, clarify rules for sidewalk riding, consider age or training requirements, and add infrastructure such as downtown bike racks. Resident Larry Akin provided written suggestions, described cycling as "his primary hobby and has provided a handout of suggestions from his riding experiences in other communities over the years," and called for learning from other municipalities' approaches.

Venus Bontadelli spoke on behalf of e-bike riders and said they "are using as primary transportation, should be enforcing the laws we have before creating new ordinances." Connor Nelson cited safety-training examples and said accident rates elsewhere declined when riders learned road rules. Council members discussed situational enforcement language and the need for a measurable standard. After discussion, Councilman Geoff Hovivian moved to table Ordinances No. 2–9 on second reading so the council could amend the redlined language; Councilman Zane Logan seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Council members and staff indicated they plan to return the ordinances with clarified definitions and enforcement language and to consider additional downtown infrastructure requests.