BYRON, Ill. (WIFR) – Byron city leaders are taking a closer look at e-bikes, e-scooters and what rules should be put in place.
It comes as some community members say they’ve seen close calls and safety concerns around town, especially involving younger riders.
During Wednesday’s city council meeting, leaders briefly discussed a proposed ordinance that would create new rules, or even a ban, for some electric-powered devices.
“As lots of communities have, we experience a huge increase in the number of various e-vehicles running around town. To the point where we’ve had several incidents of crashes and wrecks and running into people,” said Byron mayor John Rickard.
Rickard joins a growing list of local governments to create guidance for the “micro mobility” industry, also known as e-bikes and e-scooters.
“That state statute has put municipalities in an awkward spot. That we have allowed them in certain places, we become liable for all places and to avoid the liability, we’re put in a really weird spot of saying we just can’t let you do this,” he explained.
Ride-Illinois, a non-profit, teamed up with the secretary of state’s office because data shows most people are confused about state vs local rules and that’s led to some close calls.
“You don’t want to overregulate, but at the same time, there is a very serious need to keep people safe,” said Patricia Diduch, the city administrator.
Right now, Byron does not have specific regulations in place for e-bikes or scooters. The proposed ordinance would change that by setting clear guidelines for riders.
For example, rules would include how fast someone can go, where they can ride and wearing safety gear like helmets.
City leaders say much of the concern involves younger riders using the e-bikes or e-scooters without clear rules in place.
“Kids have been running around without any sense of rules, without restrictions. Just kids being kids,” said Rickard. “Personally, I had two middle schoolers almost run into my car.”
They also acknowledge that some residents rely on e-bikes as a way to get around and say those concerns will be part of the discussion.
Marvin Sweger, a frequent e-bike user, attended Wednesday’s council meeting to get clarity from the city on the ordinance.
“I put my fishing poles on my bike, and I got it set up for my tackle box and stuff like that. They are taking my freedom away,” Sweger said.
The proposal is still in the early stages, and no vote has been taken. City leaders say they plan to review the ordinance and gather feedback from the community before making any final decisions.
“We’re really struggling with how to deal with a situation where we have kids younger than 16 who are operating, things that are serious and require knowledge of the rules of the road,” said Diduch.
The council will meet again to talk about the topic more on Wednesday, April 1.
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