Minutes
Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee
Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Information related to e-bikes and e-scooters related to helmet requirements are provided. E­ scooters and bicycles both should be used on roadways only.

Councillor Costante inquires whether there is data from other municipalities related to whether wearing a helmet would prevent injuries. Mr. Hagan doesn't have that information available although he provides information related to American scooter share programs.

Councillor McKenzie requests information related to a helmet by-law and whether not wearing a helmet on an electric scooter is riskier than not wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle. Administration indicates if there are more riders there may be more incidents.

Councillor McKenzie inquires about other municipalities and their information campaigns related to helmet usage. Administration indicates there is educational information and with share programs there is an education component right away.

Councillor Costante inquires whether there is any information related to the 16-:24 year old age range being the most vulnerable. Administration indicates there is no specific evidence but it would be similar to other activities.

Councillor Kaschak inquires as to the cost to purchase a brand new e-scooter. Administration indicates it would be approximately $500.00 as a starting point.

Councillor Holt inquires about the scooter usage along multi-use paths but not in parks. Administration indicates the riverfront is a heavy pedestrian usage area and in consultation with Parks it is not recommended to allow e-scooters along the riverfront at this time. They add that it would be expensive in terms of signage as well and there are too many pedestrians.

Councillor McKenzie inquires about the legal aspect. Administration indicates that they have consulted with legal in terms of the risk to the City.

Moved by: Councillor Costante

Seconded by: Councillor McKenzie

Decision Number: ETPS 736

  1. THAT Traffic By law 9148 BE AMENDED as listed and attached in Appendix 1 of this report; and that Item 17, referring to helmets, BE DELETED.

  2. THAT the City Solicitor BE DIRECTED to prepare the necessary documents to amend the by law.

  3. THAT Windsor Police Services BE ADVISED of these by law amendments for enforcement as resources allow.