Mount Clemens introduces pedicab ("pedal pub") ordinance; commissioners debate alcohol ban and safety rules

The Mount Clemens City Commission voted on Dec. 7 to introduce a pedicab public transportation ordinance and set Dec. 21, 2015, for the second reading and adoption.

City Attorney Mike Murray said the draft ordinance would require an annual permit, name the City of Mount Clemens as an additional insured on the operator’s insurance, include a hold-harmless agreement and — as written — prohibit alcohol consumption on the pedicab. The ordinance would also require any proposed route to be approved by the sheriff’s department.

Petitioners Debbie Williams and her partner, Renee P., described the vehicle as a pedal-only “Pedal Pub” that carries up to 15 people, operates at about 6 mph and is driven by a licensed driver. Williams said the operator would carry $2 million in liability insurance and require participants to sign liability waivers; helmets would be offered to riders. The petitioners said they planned to operate one unit and prefer to serve downtown routes.

Commissioners asked whether other cities allow alcohol and cited mixed practices in peer communities. Commissioner Campbell noted Royal Oak does not allow alcohol on similar vehicles, while older examples exist where alcohol is permitted. Several commissioners warned that prohibiting alcohol could make the business model unviable for some customers; others expressed concern that allowing alcohol raises liability and enforcement issues.

The commission did not set a fee in the ordinance; petitioners suggested a range of roughly $300–$400 for a two-hour tour if alcohol were allowed. Commissioners asked staff to research cities that permit alcohol on pedal pubs and assess reported issues before the second reading.

The commission recorded a roll-call vote introducing the ordinance; the introduction passed and the item will return for a second reading Dec. 21.