Title
Adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code to update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code to update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks.
SUMMARY:
The ordinance to Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code will update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks. This is consistent with the California Vehicle Code.
DISCUSSION:
On December 2, 2021, the County of Monterey Parks Commission (Commission) received a comprehensive informational report regarding the use of electric bicycles within various jurisdictional boundaries including the County of Monterey.
On December 1, 2022, an Ad Hoc Committee (Committee) was formed to research e-bikes and meet with local community members regarding the use of e-bikes in County parks. The newly formed Committee consisted of Commissioners Getzelman, Sanchez and Stracke.
On July 2023, the Commission released a County-wide survey to gather information regarding a possible update to the ordinance for e-bike use within County parks which was posted on social media platforms, advertised in local media, and distributed to user groups prev...
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