Commission hears e-bike enforcement update; police report large drop in unlawful use

The commission received an update on e-bike enforcement and education. Staff reminded commissioners that the village adopted an ordinance prior to 2025 and that police implemented an education-and-enforcement playbook last year. A police representative reported an 81% decrease in unlawful e-bike use in Hinsdale as a result of those efforts and described continuing outreach, including social-media posts and materials distributed to the school district.

Staff said there have been no substantive legislative changes from 2025 to 2026 regarding e-bikes at the state level, though the Secretary of State (named in the transcript as Alexi Janois) has proposed potential clarifying changes that staff will monitor. The village plans to recirculate guidance on the homepage, include it in the e-newsletter and coordinate with schools for the spring season.

Police representatives said enforcement includes progressive contacts that can lead to tickets for parental responsibility when prior notifications fail. Commissioners praised the education effort and asked staff to continue outreach as warmer weather increases e-bike use.