Council backs behavior-focused enforcement after e-bike concerns raised

Anthony DiSarro, a Lower Alsace Township resident and Antietam School District employee, urged Mount Penn Borough Council to allow responsible e-bike commuting, saying he follows state laws, wears a helmet and uses a Class 2 pedal-assist bike.

Resident James Laverty countered that he does not support e-bikes, describing an incident in which an e-bike rider collided with his car and damaged the vehicle. Laverty said young riders were sometimes disregarding traffic rules on Endlich Avenue and 25th Street and called the behavior 'a menace.'

Chief Ray Serafin told the council that "the law is unclear on e-bikes versus scooters" and said he plans to direct officers to allow e-bikes and scooters so long as they conform to roadway laws — stopping at stop signs, obeying traffic signals and wearing helmets — and to focus enforcement on dangerous operation rather than vehicle classification. Deputy Chief Justin Johnson emphasized enforcing unsafe riding behavior as the priority.

Council members noted the fire company responded to three incidents this year involving e-bikes or scooters but agreed with the police focus on behavior. The council did not adopt or amend any borough ordinance during the meeting; officials said District Attorney Adams plans to discuss clarifying legislation with state lawmakers.