Police chief urges single micro‑mobility ordinance to simplify e‑bike and scooter rules

The village police chief urged council to consolidate multiple local codes into a single micro‑mobility ordinance covering e‑bikes, scooters, skateboards and similar devices. "We got two ordinances right now that talks about ebikes," the chief said, and recommended "knocked down to one ordinance" that would include clear definitions, allowed uses and safety rules.

Council members and staff discussed class 1/2/3 distinctions and noted that class‑3 devices can reach speeds similar to a motorcycle and may require licensing or endorsements. The chief and council emphasized visible manufacturer labels (wattage and top speed) to help officers make on‑the‑spot determinations: "Even not having that label ... would fall under a violation," the chief said. The council also discussed age limits, potential helmet rules, whether to treat higher‑powered devices as vehicles, and the need for a short public education campaign if the code changes.

Council asked staff to work with the chief and legal counsel to draft a consolidated ordinance and a readable summary for residents. No vote occurred.