(Spirit Lake)– The Spirit Lake City Council has started the process of researching a possible ordinance to regulate E-bikes and scooters on bike trails in the city as well as in the downtown and school areas.
The city council Tuesday evening held an open discussion. Among those addressing the council was a representative of a local bike shop who said any ordinance that’s passed will need to address the classification of E-bikes that WOULD be allowed and those that are NOT. He says that’s being complicated because some E-bikes are being modified after they’ve been purchased…
When it comes to formulating an ordinance, City Attorney/Administrator Gregg Owens says the city also wants to work with the school district…
And with the start of school now just a few weeks away, Mayor Kevin Bice says the clock is ticking to get something adopted…
Spirit Lake Police Chief Shane Brevik says such an ordinance would likely put an emphasis on education. He says by no means do they intend to do away with E-bikes and scooters altogether…
KUOO news asked Brevik if he foresees the day when licensed law enforcement officers will need to be assigned to the trails…
The trails currently are patrolled by volunteers from the SALT, or Seniors and Lawmen Together organization, however they are not authorized to actively enforce speed limits or other violations on the trails. Officials say they are more intended to provide aid to trail users.
Other cities, including the Board of Supervisors, have not yet formal discussions on the matter.
