Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to enact new Chapter 586 of the Columbus City Codes, pertaining to the licensing of micro transit, or slower-speed, vehicles operating in the City.
Beginning this year, under Ohio Revised Code, slower-speed vehicles, commonly known as golf carts, became legal to drive on all Ohio roadways. A few new companies have begun services to transport passengers using these micro transit vehicles. On May 1st of this year, the License Section under Department of Public Safety began a pilot program to license drivers and vehicles for the new micro transit service Hopper Cart. This company, and other local services, worked in collaboration with the City to develop rules and regulations to govern the operation of micro transit vehicles in Columbus. The feedback on this program has been overwhelmingly positive. Therefore, License Section is recommending the inclusion of micro transit vehicles into the City Code.
Building on Council’s past work to update the City’s licensing process, these additional safeguards further Council’s efforts to consider innovative new industries and modernize the City Code, ensuring the health, safety and welfare of Columbus residents.
Title
To enact new Chapter 586 of the Columbus City Codes, creating provisions for the licensing of micro transit vehicles in the City of Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, the License Section is responsible for rules and regulations involving vehicles used to transport the public; and
WHEREAS, micro transit services are a popular and growing mode of transportation for downtown residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, the present City Code does not consider the use of micro transit vehicles, which were legalized for operation on Ohio roadways last year by the Ohio General Assembly; and
WHEREAS, the License Section has worked in collaboration with micro transit companies, and other stakeholders, to develop rules and regulations, as well as code language, that will ...
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