Thorold's e-scooter riders eagerly awaiting spring road conditions might be in for a cold shower in the future, as the city could pass a bylaw, banning them from roads and trails in the city.
The popular new vehicle is now found in 125 U.S cities as well as Quebec and Alberta, and as of January 1 they are allowed in Ontario under a 5-year pilot.
The government said the initiative could help residents get around better and more environment friendly, which would impact growth and business positively.
But not everyone is optimistic.
During Tuesday's council meeting, Coun. Fred Neale called for the city to pass a bylaw banning them from the roads.
"They are going to be on the road, maybe even sidewalks, where they could also hit people. From my perspective, as a driver of a vehicle, I see them as a safety hazard. We are going to have accidents", he said.
Under the pilot project, the province has granted municipalities the right to decide wether they want them, or to pass bylaws prohibiting the use.
Similar considerations are being made in St. Catharines, where city staff are in contact with their Thorold counterparts to figure out a way to move forward.
Thorold municipal works director Geoff Holman said some meetings are slated to take place in the summer, as well as a study of the ridership.
A report on the matter will be brought back to council in August.
