The Culver Town Council took another look at an amendment to the golf cart ordinance Tuesday night.
The issues that the council wanted more information on was an increase in the registration fee, a height requirement for riders, and a flashing red or amber light when the golf cart is in operation.
Town Manager Jonathan Leist said after much public input regarding the registration fee the fee will increase from $40 to $60. There will be a quantity discount for businesses that have 10 cart or more which will stay at $40 per registration.
Other than that, the amendments in the ordinance will remain which includes recommended language that a driver of a golf cart within the town limits of Culver must be at least 16-and-a-half years old and hold an ID card issued by the state or a photo exempt ID card. A driver will not be allowed to use a telecommunication device while operating a golf cart, similar to the law that prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving a vehicle.
A red or amber flashing light is required when headlamps are necessary for other motor vehicles, which is a state statute.
Additionally, all golf carts must have insurance and have proof of that insurance while operating the golf carts at all times on town streets. That proof of insurance must be provided to town staff during registration. The registration sticker must be visible at all times when the golf cart is in operation.
There will be no more passengers than what the golf cart is equipped to carry, and adult passengers or drivers are not to hold children on their lap while the golf cart is in operation. The height requirement for a passenger is 36 inches.
The final amendment adjusts the fine to $150 per violation. If more than three violations have occurred, the golf cart registration will be revoked.
The amendments passed with a vote of 3-2 with Bill Githens, Bill Cleavenger and Rich West in favor and Sally Riccardi and Ginny Bess Munroe with opposing votes. The official first reading of the ordinance is anticipated at the next meeting.
