City council passes first reading of ordinance to regulate e-bikes, more

The Worthington City Council on Monday approved the first reading of a proposed ordinance that would regulate e-bikes, motorized bicycles, and motorized foot scooters within the city.

Community Development Director Matt Self introduced the proposed ordinance during Monday's meeting, and Interim Public Safety Director Nate Grimmius also offered comments on the matter. Selof indicated the rise of e-bikes, motorized bicycles, and motorized foot scooters had led to increased concerns regarding safety and usage of these devices.

The proposed ordinance largely adopts Minnesota State Statute references into city code with only a few localized options. It would prohibit motorized bicycles and motorized foot scooters on trails within the city. The traffic and safety committee met earlier this month and voted to recommend council approve the proposed ordinance.

"These things are dangerous," Grimmius said the devices targeted in the ordinance. He added: "My big concern is one of these kids is going to get hurt very badly.”

In a separate matter Monday, council members approved a request to install a wind phone on the peninsula of Sunset Bay in the city. A wind phone is a non-functioning telephone placed in a peaceful outdoor setting where individuals may privately speak to deceased loved ones or express thoughts that they are unable to share elsewhere.

The request came from licensed professional clinical counselor Charlotte Heinz-Hoefert, who gave a brief presentation and answered questions during the meeting, Councilman Chris Kielblock was the lone no vote, citing concerns about both location and stigma.