Golf carts in the city?

The Wayland City Council Monday night asked Police Chief Mark Garnsey to speak with other police chiefs in communities that have allowed golf cart use within their borders. He mostly will try to bring back information about safety.

The city doesn’t have an ordinance that permits or regulates use of golf carts in the city limits, but many residents are increasing their use with guidelines. Obviously, council members and authorities don’t want them on main arteries, such as in the downtown, but advocates want to have them as alternative transportation in residential and more rural areas.

Indeed, golf carts are regulated in Dorr Township, Leighton Township and the Gun Lake areas, all of which are more rxural with less traffic.

Former Councilwoman Tracy Bivins, who owns a golf cart, said she checked in with City of Ludington officials about their local rules governing the carts. She said many urban citizens now have dirt bikes, motor scooters and off-road vehicles, and golf carts could be a more attractive family-oriented option.

“We thought it would be a good thing; they’re kind of everywhere (these days),” said citizen Morgan Klaver.

She added she understands there are safety concerns, but there could be rules to limit them to just 15 miles per hour and the city could spell out where they would be prohibited.

City Manager Josh Eggleston said the council has three options — Direct him to craft an ordinance, decide not proceed any further with the matter, or seek more information for discussion at the next meeting.

Council went for the third option, and some members acknowledged they are opposed.

“Are we going to be held liable (in case of a golf cart accident)?” asked Joe Kramer. “I’m not in favor of this.”

Rick Mathis said the city would have to pay for signs warning where golf carts could or couldn’t be used.

“I’m not keen on this idea, but I’d like more information from Mark (Garnsey),” he said.

Councilwoman Jennifer Antel added, “My concern also is safety. I just don’t see a need, and we’re not hip on having fun… You can walk to anything.”

Garnsey himself said he has mixed emotions, maintaining golf carts could provide a positive economic impact, but has concerns about safety as well.

In other business at Monday night’s meeting, the council:

• Was told by Eggleston the city has made an offer to a new city clerk, pending background check. The new official will succeed Kristin Engel, who has served as interim clerk since Michelle Herman retired in December.

Council members thanked Engel for her service, particularly during an unusual and hectic primary election. She plans to continue working at City Hall.

• Welcomed new Main Street Director Teryl Shields, who actually was working locally since last May. She comes from Florence, Ala., where she held a similar post. She said she’s also been director of a conference center at Penn State University and was manager of a Kinko’s business.

She succeeds Julia Sturvist.

• Welcomed intern Katie Beemer from Grand Valley State University, who has done similar work for Ferrysburg and Muskegon.
• Approved purchases of a new mower for the ponds for between $17,000 and $18,000 and a Dodge pickup with a lift and plow for $45,000.
• Will meet as scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 8, though the Planning Commission will meet at 6 p.m. that day. The Tuesday session is necessary because of the Labor Day holiday the day before.