Park board seeks input on e‑bike and personal electric vehicle ordinance

Bryan opened the discussion on adding a definition for e‑bikes to the city ordinance, saying the meeting’s primary goal was to "gather board input on adding a definition for e‑bikes to the city ordinance." The board reviewed e‑bike classifications (three classes, with discussion of a possible fourth for high‑speed throttle‑only vehicles) and agreed the draft should cover devices with wheels 12 inches or larger while excluding very small scooters for the moment.

Board members and guest John Simpson raised enforcement concerns, noting bicycle licensing is currently optional and that limited police resources make identifying violations difficult. John Simpson suggested mandatory licensing for faster e‑bikes and e‑scooters to aid enforcement. The board also reviewed ordinances from Harrisburg and Sioux Falls: Harrisburg defines multiple device types and age limits, while Sioux Falls prohibits class 3 e‑bikes on trails and sidewalks and requires helmets for riders under 18.

Discussion turned to safety rules the board may include: helmet requirements for riders under 18, speed limits for trails versus streets, and location restrictions to prevent riding on grass or in crowded areas such as sports complexes. Members debated whether to adopt broader terminology — "personal electric vehicle (PEV)" — to future‑proof the ordinance. The board emphasized consulting Chief Pelle and legal staff before finalizing language and directed city staff to draft an ordinance that includes definitions, helmet and age rules, equipment requirements (headlights, brake lights), location restrictions, and proposed enforcement mechanisms.