Scooter riders in Springfield will have to abide by new rules. Council has approved a bill requiring a license to operate a motorized bicycle, limiting the number of passengers to what the vehicle was designed for and requiring helmets and insurance.
City councilman Doug Burlison was the only one to vote no on the measure. He made two motions before the vote—one to remove the insurance requirement and another to table the ordinance, but no one seconded those motions.
He attempted to persuade his colleagues to vote no because he said the bill would place a financial burden on some Springfield residents.
"Some of the poorest travelers that we have on our streets will be affected by this bill, and I think, when we enact this if it does pass, that it will place undue burdens on those that are trying to get to work and support their families," he said.
City Council also heard an ordinance last night that would close Linwood Drive at Holland and Portland Street. Neighbors are concerned about what they say is a dangerous intersection.