Galesburg is considering allowing UTVs and golf carts to operate on some city streets, but there is some opposition to the idea.
The proposed ordinance would allow the vehicles on low-volume, non-arterial residential streets.
Owners would be required to register the vehicles with city hall, have them inspected annually by the Galesburg Police Department, and follow the rules of the road.
Interim city manager Wayne Carl said this is being considered at the request of some council members.
Some residents have also requested such an ordinance.
But on first reading of the ordinance, Ward 6 council member Sarah Davis said the city’s transportation committee already made a recommendation against it.
“This came back with a rejection of the idea due to the safety of our residents as well as the additional efforts that would be required by the police department that is already stretched thin,” Davis said.
State law prohibits UTVs and golf carts on city streets, but municipalities can adopt local ordinances to allow it.
Many smaller towns in the area have already adopted such ordinances, but the issue becomes more contentious in larger communities with higher volumes of regular vehicle traffic.
The Monmouth city council rejected allowing golf carts and UTVs on its streets last year, but will consider a revised ordinance next month.
In Iowa, Keokuk adopted made golf carts street legal earlier this year, following the lead of similar laws passed in Fort Madison and rural Lee County.
But Keokuk’s ordinance will sunset in 2023 so leaders can evaluate any issues.
The Galesburg city council will vote on its ordinance next month.
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