Mesa could soon permit electric bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph anywhere in city parks where traditional bicycles can go – including sidewalks.

The Public Safety Committee – comprising Vice Mayor Scott Somers, Councilman Rich Adams and Councilwoman Julie Spilsbury – on Oct. 23 heard a staff proposal to update the City Code that also would require e-bike riders and passengers under age 18 to wear a helmet.

“I’m just torn on this,” Spilsbury said. “I’m just trying to weigh what we’re trying to accomplish here and what makes the most sense because I don’t want to make a bunch of people mad by allowing e-bikes.

“Some people will say, ‘Why do we have to let you bike in there at all?' because they go way faster – flying past and going 20 mph.”

Spilsbury asked what the goal of the update

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