Committee discusses allowing class 1–3 e-bikes on some shared-use paths, adds helmet rule for under-18s

Staff summarized edits to the proposed e-vehicle ordinance and said the changes are intended to match council direction. "So it's on page 4 of your packet, and it would be the 3rd column down where it says class 1 and class 2 ebikes," staff said, explaining that the packet now allows motor operation on some shared-use paths while keeping the sidewalk provision that prohibits motor engagement there.

The staff presenter told the committee that a helmet requirement was added since the last services meeting: "class 1, class 2, and class 3 ebikes, if you are under the age of 18, do require a helmet." He said the police chief has been included in communications and that the department is "in favor of the current revisions as they have been drafted." Committee members sought clarity on device classifications and the distinction between e-bikes and electric motorcycles; staff responded that electric motorcycles would be treated differently and require licensing and registration under vehicle law.