Council debates e‑bike, motorbike definitions and impoundment authority in proposed ordinance

The council heard a staff overview of Ordinance 6355 from Deputy City Attorney Kaylee Stickle, who said the ordinance would add definitions for electric assisted bicycles (including Class 1 and Class 2E) and for motorbikes (Class 3 and above), and would clarify that motor vehicles are not allowed on sidewalks, bicycle paths and parks under current law.

Stickle said the measure "carves out an exception for traditional e bikes and it permits impoundment," and explained that, because many of the motorized bikes are not registered or insured, impoundment is the most practical enforcement tool available. Councilors questioned immediately resorting to impoundment, noting the administrative burden and disproportionate impact on minors. One councilor asked whether officers could instead issue warnings or ticketing; staff said officers retain discretion but that impoundment is an available and effective enforcement mechanism for unregistered, unlicensed vehicles.

Councilors also discussed the technical aspects of e‑bikes — whether classification should depend on manufacture or on the vehicle's operating speed — and whether the city could create a local registration in conflict with state law. Questions around towing fees and whether the city's towing contract results in equal fees for small e‑bikes and cars were raised; staff replied fees are based on the dispatch of a tow truck, not vehicle weight. Councilors expressed concern about taking a child’s bike from a 10‑year‑old and asked staff to craft parental‑release provisions and warnings for minors.

After discussion, the council agreed to postpone the ordinance for roughly one month to gather more public input and refine enforcement options; staff will return with suggested alternatives (ticketing, warnings, parental procedures) and notice language for impoundment.