Council tables proposed e-bike ordinance after debate on enforcement and retailer outreach

The Buckeye City Council on Monday heard a presentation from Police Chief Bob Sanders on a proposed ordinance (15-26) to regulate e-bikes, standing scooters, micro-mobility devices and electric motorcycles, but ultimately voted to table the ordinance to give staff time to consult retailers and other stakeholders.

Chief Sanders described three goals for the proposal: reduce reckless behavior and injuries (with emphasis on riders under 16), launch an education-first public campaign in partnership with retailers and parents, and provide a targeted enforcement tool. "We're not here to overregulate the use of ebikes or e-scooters... but we do want to reduce reckless or careless behavior and we specifically really want to reduce injuries to those under 16," Sanders told the council.

The draft ordinance would cover devices that exceed 10 miles per hour, include retailer obligations to provide safety information (pamphlets or QR codes), require helmets for riders under 18 and set phased enforcement (education June–August, warnings starting August 2026, targeted enforcement in September 2026). Sanders outlined progressive penalties for repeat violations and noted growing pediatric emergency-room visits tied to micromobility nationally and locally.

Public comment was mixed. Corey Rafty, speaking for the Verado Community Association, endorsed a balanced, collaborative approach to safety and education. Patrick Aluli, co-owner of local shop Thrive (who goes by "Billy"), said retailers had not been included early enough, warned against broadly restricting children's mobility, and urged more nuance around device classes.

Following council discussion about retailer input, enforcement practicality and unintended consequences for children, the vice mayor moved to table Ordinance 15-26 to allow staff additional time to solicit stakeholder feedback and revise the proposal; the motion passed on a council voice vote. The transcript records the motion and the tabling but does not include a roll-call tally.