AGENDA DATE: 12/18/2019
TITLE:
Title
Regulation and Licensure of Certain Mobility Devices
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Public Hearing on proposed ordinance to regulate and require the licensure of certain mobility devices when offered for hire
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Kamptner, Herrick, Filardo, McCulley, Benish, McDermott
PRESENTER (S): Kevin McDermott
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: Since November 2018, the City of Charlottesville has been operating a pilot program for Shared Electric Bicycles (e-bikes) and Electric Scooters (e-scooters) (collectively referred to as Dockless Mobility). Since then, multiple companies have been providing Dockless Mobility services in the region. Many of these devices have frequently crossed the City line into the County. Of the more than 200,000 trips taken on Dockless Mobility devices over the past year, according to City data, approximately 8,500 (roughly 4%) started or ended in Albemarle County.
In March 2019, the General Assembly enacted HB 2752, which enables localities to both regulate and/or require the licensure of motorized skateboards or scooters, bicycles, or electric power-assisted bicycles for hire. The new law also provides that on or after January 1, 2020, in the absence of any licensing ordinance, regulation, or other action, a person may offer motorized skateboards or scooters, bicycles, or electric power-assisted bicycles for hire.
With this January 1 date in mind, City staff began working with County and University of Virginia staff to develop an ordinance and policies that would meet regional needs. This proposed City ordinance is now advancing through the approval process and is expected to be adopted prior to January 1, 2020.
At the November 20, 2019 Board of Supervisors meeting, staff presented, and the Board reviewed, the applicable State laws, the City effort, and the effect of both on the County. As a ...
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