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Cobourg council is taking a closer look at whether the town should allow electric scooters on its streets, as councillors weigh the benefits of regulated use against concerns about enforcement and public safety.
The issue was raised by a Cobourg resident who told council last week that e-scooters are already appearing on Cobourg roads and sidewalks despite being illegal outside municipalities participating in Ontario’s provincial pilot program.
Under the provincial framework, e-scooters can travel up to 24 km/h and must have working brakes, lights and a horn or bell. Riders must be at least 16, passengers are prohibited and the scooters cannot be operated on sidewalks.
Coun. Adam Bureau said regulated e-scooters could provide an inexpensive transportation option, while Deputy Mayor Nicole Beatty said the town should establish rules because the vehicles are already being used locally.
Mayor Lucas Cleveland opposed joining the pilot, pointing to Cobourg’s limited police resources, budget and competing priorities.
Council ultimately directed staff to prepare a report for the new council ahead of the spring riding season, rather than bringing recommendations forward for the Sept. 23 meeting.
(Richard Evans)
