City Forms Safety Committee to Address Increasing Issue of Unsafe Riding of E-Scooters, E-Bikes

A City of New Hampton social media post has notified citizens of the formation of a Safety Committee to address the growing issue of unsafe operation of electric scooters and electric bikes in the city.

The New Hampton residents are weighing in on the E-scooter/E-bike issue.

Comments posted in response to the City of New Hampton Facebook post on the Safety Committee’s recent meeting include:

“Keep our kids safe. Some are lucky I’ve been paying attention after shooting out in front of traffic. Educate your children before someone learns the hard way.” 

“It’s hard for kids to understand the risk they take if the rules aren’t enforced.”

“The other day I was traveling down Court Avenue and this young boy couldn’t have been much more than 8-years-old. He had a stop sign and was riding in the street. He didn’t slow down or even attempt to stop. The boy will be dead. Also where have the laws governing bicycle riders? They’re just as bad. “

“They travel Maple Avenue and none of them stop at Main Street stop signs, not to mention TWO small kids on ONE scooter which in itself is not safe and could be illegal, I don’t know. And let’s not forget lighting on them after dark. I sit on my front porch swing and see it every night. It’s a shame parents allow this sort of activity. “

New Hampton Police Chief Conrad Rosendahl has noted previously that, adding to the problem, is distracted riding.

Councilwoman Deb Larsen, chair of the Safety Committee is scheduled to meet again Tuesday (06.30). Meetings are currently not open to the public, but Larsen notes that there will be future meetings for the public to weigh. 

The City would be required to hold public hearings on any proposed changes to the City ordinance regarding E-scooters and E-bikes.