City talks electric bikes

The mention of an electric dirt bike running up and down streets prompted a conversation on these types of bikes during Wednesday’s regular meeting of the Fairbury City Council.

Alderman Charlie Hoselton pointed to new state laws which only allow them on streets with bike lanes.

“The worst thing is they don’t stop at stop signs,” said Alderman Bruce Weber.

Mayor David Slagel feels this is becoming more of a problem because they go so fast.

“We need to look at that (law) a little closer,” the mayor stated.

Signs are planned for North Park saying no e-bikes or electric scooters and there will be nine signs along the trail, according to City Superintendent Brett Ashburn.

On an 8-0 vote, council members approved squad equipment for a police vehicle. Three bids came in with Edwards Upfitting being the low bidder.

A quote for new fire department uniforms was approved. Fire Chief Josh Hoselton said it is an opportunity to make everything the same.

“We received a good amount of donations toward this,” explained the chief.

Police Chief Chris Edwards updated the council on two new hires which went through the academy and Fairbury did get reimbursed by the state for training.

Superintendent Ashburn asked the council how they want to pay for the new squad vehicle. It was proposed using money from the police vehicle fund and vehicle seizure fund.

Alderman Hoselton told the group a yield sign at Chestnut and Fifth streets is barely visible when heading west.

“Can we not just trim that up?” Mayor Slagel asked, referring to a tree in that area.

Streets Superintendent Lonnie Rhoads replied he would look at the tree.

Alderman Weber asked about getting umbrellas for the swimming pool.

“There’s really no shade out there,” he said.

Gary Norris feels it is a race to get there early to see who can sit under the lone tree nearby. Creating a shaded space on the sun deck was an idea suggested.

Alderman James Tipton was approached by someone asking for details on adding a back yard fence, saying they have the information to do it now. He also said a neighbor is concerned about a house being renovated on Cherry Street as debris is piled in the middle of the back yard.

The city attorney believes it is an ordinance violation and if the owner is not compliant, the individual could receive a ticket. Ashburn will send a letter.

Also at Wednesday’s meeting, compliments were given to the street department for recent storm cleanup and the mayor said businesses and others seemed pleased with the downtown carnival.

“I love seeing that stuff in Sunken Park,” added Weber.

During public comment, a citizen repeated previous complaints about kids on scooters not being watched and cutting through traffic. She also said to tell the police department to “do their job” and asked why nothing was getting done.

The consent agenda was authorized which included June 3 meeting minutes, voucher invoice register listing the bills, treasurer’s cash report, check register and overtime report.

An executive session was held although no action was taken.

In other action, the council:

-Approved Ryan Hanson as ESDA coordinator.

-Transferred funds from the general account to sewer account.

-Approved a tire purchase for street department fork lift.