The allowance of UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) within city limits is inching closer to reality since Madison Bitter originally approached the Ulysses City Council with the idea in April.
The councilmen have had brief discussions in previous meetings, all of which have had positive outcomes. During the most recent meeting July 12, City Attorney Lynn Koehn consulted with the council concerning an ordinance for UTVs.
“I need guidance from all of you so we can get something put together,” said Koehn.
Councilman Terry Maas found points of concern mentioned by Ulysses Chief of Police Ron Vagher to be valid, therefore proposing to include them in the ordinance. All council members were in agreement that UTV operation within city limits should be prohibited to those under 16 years of age.
“Even just one or two (students) that take it to the school (UHS)," Koehn said. "You can imagine what could happen during open lunch if kids make a mistake and end up rolling it."
Councilman Mark Diaz asked if the type of tires used have the potential to tear up city streets. Caleb Woods responded to Diaz by stating damage done by UTVs would be small compared to the amount of semi trucks passing through. McCauley responded to Woods, with a difference in the two.
“Semis are making money," McCauley pointed out. "These (UTVs) are just for recreation.”
Woods responded with consideration for law enforcement, implying too many implementations in the ordinance could create hardship for officers trying to enforce UTV regulations.
Koehn suggested the council find conditions to which they can all agree. He assured the council that any changes, additions, or improvements to the ordinance can be made at any time.
The vehicles, under the ordinance, require side-by-side seats, seatbelts, a roll cage, and a rear cargo area, eliminating the allowance of ATVs. Registration and tags will also be required.
Maas mentioned he has been approached by UTV owners within the community who expressed favoring of restrictions.
“They want to leave people that won’t follow it, out of it,” said Maas.
Sam Guy asked about the penalties for violations.
“The penalty for operating without a driver’s license would be a Class B Misdemeanor, which would be up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine,” answered Koehn. “Any traffic infraction is going to be what is already set by the traffic statute which I believe is a $75 fine plus $80 in court costs. If you specifically violate it by not having it registered, that punishment is set by the ordinance.”
Koehn recommended the punishment include a maximum $500 fine and up to 30 days in jail. Koehn expects to have the ordinance prepared by the next meeting.
In new business:
The Ulysses News asked the council if they would like to renew their advertisement in the Experience magazine. After a brief discussion, the councilmen agreed to a half-page advertisement with an updated picture.
Natalie Anguiano, Head of Building and Code Enforcement, asked for action regarding Resolution 2023-5. The resolution concerns the property of Pete Woods. Jesus Barrios has a real estate contract with Woods to close on the property in November. Anguiano stated she has kept communication with Woods concerning what needs done to stay within compliance. Anguiano informed Barrios that a resolution would be created if proper renovations were not completed within the given timeline. Previously, Woods had agreed to have the property under safe standards by July 7. A preliminary finding will be established, deeming the property unsafe due to the conditions. A motion was moved to pass Resolution 2023-5 with all in favor. A hearing has been set for August 23 to determine further action.
The next city council meeting will be at 5 p.m., Wednesday, July 28 at City Hall.
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