EARLIER THIS WEEK at a Public Hearing, the Marquette City Commission approved an ordinance which defines and legislates the use of “electric mobility devices not greater than 750 watts.” In other words, we now have a fresh set of curated rules and regulations regarding what, where, and how e-bikes can be used within the city limits.
Though the ordinance itself is quite wordy… as most ordinances are, the gist is that all three classes of e-bikes are now allowed on our multi-use paths, our streets, and to a limited degree… our sidewalks.
Previously, only Class 1 e-bikes… those which require pedal-assist, were allowed. Now? After an exhaustive examination of the issue by an ad hoc task force, chaired by City Commissioner Cary Gottlieb, the recommendation was to also allow Class 2 and 3 e-bikes, as well as other motorized mobility devices, as long as they don’t exceed the 750 watt limit.
The Best Plan Today
I believe the ad hoc committee’s recommendation, fine-tuned by city staff and approved by the city commission, is about as good as it gets, for now. Mayor Paul Schloegel called it “a living, breathing document,” meaning, it’s a start. If all hell breaks loose, expect a re-examination. But, until then, it looks like they’ve addressed a difficult situation with rules and regs that attempt to keep this newfound two-wheeled toy under control, and our citizens safe when venturing out into our public spaces.
The ordinance is not without its limitations… specifically, enforcement. The what and where will be relatively easy. Our officers won’t have any problem differentiating between an electric motorcycle and an e-bike, or when users are on prohibited pathways. The challenge will be with enforcement of behavior.
The new ordinance, #26-05, specifically references how the bikes can be used. Section 46-93.5 says, “No person shall travel on the multi-use path at a speed greater than what is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for actual and potential hazards.”
It also says, “No person shall fail to exercise full control over the mobility device they are using on any street, parking lot, sidewalk, or designated multi-use path.”
Is There a Problem?
Here’s a question, to which I already know the answer… “Have you seen kids on e-bikes violating either of the above guidelines?” A better question is… who hasn’t?
Obviously, the new ordinance applies to anyone and everyone using such devices. But if the anecdotal evidence is accurate, we should be most concerned about the kids. The ones who have dropped their old pedal bikes off at St. Vinnie’s and now operate fully-functional motorized vehicles, easily capable of speeds greater than their antiquated Schwinns.
Parental Guidance
Before we go further, in the spirit of partial disclosure, let me acknowledge that I am not an accredited authority in parenting. My only qualification is that I am in fact, a parent, and have been for a while. But it doesn’t take an expert to identify one course of action that could dramatically and positively impact the affect e-bikes are having on our community, and that’s adult supervision. Parenting.
With enforcement of the new ordinance being challenging even in the best of circumstances, it becomes incumbent upon riders to police themselves, including our youth. And that mindset starts at home.
Remember the old anti-pot film “Reefer Madness?” It was initially called “Tell Your Children.” Although the plot has changed, the urgency hasn’t. Have you told your children? They need to know exactly what they can and cannot do, according to the law. They also need to know the ramifications if they fail to obey the rules And now that school is out, all of that has to come from you.
Make Sure They Know
Read to them the rules I cited above. Ask them if they understand. Tell them if they get stopped by an officer, they might get a warning, but they’re just as likely to get a citation.
And here’s one for you. If your kid gets stopped by the cops, you’re going to get called to the scene, and your name is going to be on that citation too.
Eye on Safety
Those are just the legal ramifications. Even more important is the safety of riders and those around them.
E-bikes go fast, and they’re heavy, and our multi-use paths are crowded. And even though it’s an option, riding on the street can be just as perilous.
While e-bikes on the sidewalk, outside of the downtown district, are still permitted, that’s one part of the ordinance questioned at the public hearing. The contention is that sidewalks are for walkers. It’s in the name! However, considering all scenarios, the authors of the document made accommodations for the fact that occasionally the safest option is the sidewalk.
It’s Too Important
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. When operated without an appreciation for the potential of injury… or worse, e-bikes become a rolling threat to everyone in their path. As a parent, it’s no longer enough to say you didn’t know your kids were riding irresponsibly. You have to know, because you’ve mentored them, your kids are riding responsibly.
Parents… it’s on you. Tell your children.