Storm Lake’s e‑bike, e‑scooter and personal mobility device ordinance is getting closer to the finish line, but Monday’s work session made one thing clear: city council members aren’t pedaling in the same direction yet.
The council spent about a half hour revisiting the draft ordinance, which now includes a few updates since last month — including a new parking restriction and a citizen‑requested change to the private property section. Police Chief Chris Cole said the city received a written request to clarify that riders could use areas of private property normally open to customers or visitors without needing explicit permission from the owner.
Council member Don Piercy, Jr. urged the city not to rush, saying Storm Lake shouldn’t end up with rules that differ sharply from neighboring communities. He also raised concerns about pedestrian safety on the trail system, sharing a recent close call near Frank Starr Park.
Piercy also questioned whether a helmet requirement for minors could conflict with state law, noting that many Iowa cities don’t mandate helmets.
But other council members pushed for urgency. Richard Riner warned that waiting for statewide consistency could leave Storm Lake exposed if an incident occurs before rules are in place.
Education remained a major theme. Council member Maggie Martinez said the city can’t build an effective education program without knowing what the rules are.
Martinez again voiced strong support for a youth helmet requirement, saying the state has failed to act and local leaders must step in.
The council also revisited concerns about park use, trail congestion during major events and how speed should be regulated. Cole reiterated that the ordinance uses a “reasonable and prudent” standard rather than a fixed trail speed limit — a change shaped by legal guidance and public feedback.
Cole also reminded the council that e‑bikes are legally defined as bicycles under Iowa law, meaning a full trail ban could conflict with state definitions.
Enforcement was another point of discussion. Cole said officers would continue to prioritize education, especially with juveniles.
By the end of the work session, the council agreed to move the current draft forward. The ordinance will be scheduled for a public hearing on Sept. 8, followed by the first reading that same evening.
Piercy said he still isn’t satisfied with some of the language — particularly the helmet requirement and how fines would apply to parents — but the majority supported advancing the draft for public input.
The full ordinance, including definitions, equipment rules, speed standards, park restrictions, impound procedures and penalties, will be published ahead of the September hearing.
