SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Adopt ordinance 9817-25 on second reading, amending Clearwater Code of Ordinances Chapter 22, Article II, Section 22.61, to add a new section addressing motorized bicycles, hoverboards, unicycles, scooters and similar devices.
Body
SUMMARY:
Proposed Ordinance No. 9817-25 will add a new section to the Code of Ordinances which will preclude the use of any e-bicycles, motorized bicycle, hoverboard, unicycle and scooter or similar device, excluding any medically necessary conveyances in, on or through the entirety of Beach Walk, Crest Lake Park and Coachman Park excluding those areas specifically designated for vehicular traffic such as parking lots, street rights-of-way, driveways and/or drive aisles. This amendment is the result of public input noting that motorized vehicles have been creating an unsafe environment in our parks and beaches due to the relatively high rate of speed easily achieved by these devices. The prohibition of these devices will result in an increase in patron safety.
The Department has determined that the proposed prohibition of e-bicycles, motorized bicycles, hoverboards, unicycles, scooters and similar devices in certain areas are consistent with Goal PPP 1 and Policy PPP 1.1.1 of the Parks & Public Places Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan as well as the intent and purpose of the Open Space/Recreation zoning district of the City’s Community Development Section 2-1401 which provides that is to establish areas where public and private organizations can establish and operate passive and active open space and recreation facilities which are important to the quality of life and economic vitality of the City of Clearwater without adversely impacting the integrity of adjacent residential neighborhoods, diminishing the scenic quality of the City of Clearwater or negatively impacting the safe and efficient movement of people and things within the City of Clearwater.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the name and operating hours modifications support several Strategic Plan Objectives, including:
• 1.2: Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
• 3.2: Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
Attachments:
Ordinance 9817-25
Business Impact Statement
