Ice cream can be the solution to a number of problems. The question is, can it solve ongoing concerns regarding unsafe operation of e-scooters in Meadow Lake and the apparent inability of the city’s bylaw department to enforce its own rules. During Monday’s (Aug. 26) meeting of Meadow Lake city council, a letter was received from a local resident disturbed by the number of people who fail to adhere to the city’s bylaws as they pertain to e-scooters and e-bikes.

“I am writing as a deeply concerned parent regarding the ongoing issue of underaged children riding e-scooters and power-assisted bicycles in our city, particularly along 7th Avenue West,” the letter writer – whose name was redacted by the city – noted. “According to section 21(b) (iii) of our city’s bylaws, operators of these devices must be at least 16 years old, and section 21(b) (iv) mandates all operators must wear helmets. Despite these clear regulations, enforcement appears to be lacking.”

The letter writer goes on to state children far younger than 16 have frequently been observed riding e-scooters without helmets, creating a significant risk of physical harm. “More troubling is bylaw officers often pass by without intervening,” the letter continues. “This lack of enforcement not only puts these young riders in danger but also poses a risk to other residents and motorists. As a parent, it is incredibly frustrating to explain to my children they cannot ride these scooters because they are too young, only for them to see other children, even younger, riding without any consequences. Living near the intersection of 7th Avenue West and 5th Street West, both busy streets, we witness a high volume of traffic and numerous instances of children riding unsafely. This situation is a serious accident waiting to happen.”

The letter writer also expressed particular concern about the potential for severe injury or even fatal accidents involving these young riders. “The bylaws exist to protect them, and the lack of enforcement undermines this protection,” the letter states. “Furthermore, if a motorized scooter were to collide with my vehicle, I would face increased insurance rates and potential legal complications, while the underages scooter rider might face little to no repercussions. Has the city council considered the significant danger and liability associated with underaged children riding e-scooters without helmets? It is imperative immediate action be taken to enforce our city’s bylaws, ensuring the safety of our children and protecting responsible drivers from undue liability. I urge the city council to direct bylaw officers to diligently enforce sections 21(b)(iii) and 21(b)(iv) of our bylaws. The safety of our children and the protection of law-abiding citizens must be a top priority. I look forward to your prompt response and the implantation of effective enforcement measures.”